Apple Cinnamon Pancakes Recipe

If the thought of cozy, golden pancakes loaded with tender apples and fragrant cinnamon makes your mouth water, you’re in for a treat! These Apple Cinnamon Pancakes are everything you love about a classic stack, with an irresistible autumn twist — perfect for slow weekend mornings or a sweet breakfast-for-dinner. Imagine fluffy pancakes, warm spiced apples, and a hint of maple — all in one dreamy bite.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Apple Cinnamon Pancakes is how a handful of kitchen staples come together to create something so special! Each ingredient plays a role, from the sweet-tart apples and rich Greek yogurt to the warm baking spices that make every forkful feel like a celebration.

• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for fluffy pancakes — stick to this classic for just the right texture.
• Sugar: Just a tablespoon gives a delicate hint of sweetness without overpowering the apples.
• Baking Powder: Triple-acting for extra puffiness and a tender crumb.
• Cinnamon: The star spice, bringing warmth and aroma to both pancake batter and sautéed apples.
• Salt: A little goes a long way in balancing flavors and enhancing sweetness.
• Eggs (separated): Whipped egg whites make these pancakes cloud-like, while yolks add richness.
• Milk: Loosens the batter to just the right consistency — any kind works, but whole milk brings creaminess.
• Low-fat FAGE BestSelf Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang, protein, and incredible moisture.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness to the batter and a golden finish on the griddle.
• Vanilla Extract: A fragrant background note that ties the flavors together.
• Apples: Go with whatever variety you love — Granny Smith for tartness, Pink Lady for sweetness, or try Honeycrisp for both!
• Water & Butter (for the apples): Steam and sauté the apples to the perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Brown Sugar & Maple Syrup: Caramelizes the apple topping and makes each bite decadent.
• Nutmeg & Cinnamon (for the topping): Boost the apple pie vibes with a hint of earthy spice.
• Pinch of Salt: Rounds out the sweetness in your sautéed apples.

Variations

One of the best things about Apple Cinnamon Pancakes is how adaptable they are! Swap out flours, try new spices, or use what’s already in your fridge to make this recipe perfectly suit your taste and dietary needs.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour for a stack that’s every bit as fluffy and delicious.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use your favorite non-dairy yogurt (like coconut or almond-based) and plant milk — and swap the butter for vegan butter or a neutral oil.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for a fragrant twist that pairs beautifully with apples.
• Add Some Crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or the apple topping for texture and depth.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This quick step ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which means a perfect, tender crumb in every pancake.

Step 2: Separate and Prepare the Eggs

Gently separate the egg whites from the yolks. This simple move is the secret to pancake fluffiness! Set the whites aside for later, and add the yolks to a medium bowl.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

To the egg yolks, add the Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter. Whisk until perfectly smooth and creamy — this mixture brings richness and a slight tang to your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Gently fold just until combined — it’s absolutely fine if there are a few small lumps. Over-mixing is the enemy of fluffy pancakes, so resist the urge to over-stir!

Step 5: Whip and Fold in the Egg Whites

With a hand mixer or a strong arm, whip the reserved egg whites until they form soft peaks. Carefully fold them into the batter — this gentle step will give your pancakes their cloud-like lift and dreamy texture.

Step 6: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a griddle or nonstick pan over medium heat. Swirl in a pat of butter, then scoop about ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the pan. Once you see bubbles rising to the surface and the edges look set, flip and cook just another minute or two until golden brown. Repeat until all your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes are made, adding more butter as needed.

Step 7: Sauté the Apple Topping

In a small skillet over medium heat, combine the diced apples and water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes to soften, then remove the lid and add butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir and let everything bubble gently until the apples are tender and glazed. Spoon generously over your warm pancakes — this is the moment where everything comes together!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Garnishes

Sprinkle your stack with an extra dusting of ground cinnamon or a swirl of maple syrup. For added indulgence, a dollop of creamy yogurt, a pat of salted butter, or even a handful of toasted nuts can elevate every bite. Sometimes I even set out a little bowl of warm sautéed apples on the side for a “help yourself” pancake bar!

Side Dishes

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes are genuinely satisfying on their own, but if you’re pulling out all the stops for brunch, fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or softly scrambled eggs round out the meal. Don’t forget some strong coffee or hot spiced cider — pure bliss on a cool morning.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer small pancakes in a tall stack with sautéed apples in between for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece. Or, make mini silver dollar versions for a kid-friendly breakfast platter. For gatherings, serve “pancake flights” with different toppings and let everyone create their personal Apple Cinnamon Pancakes masterpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover pancakes cool completely, then stack them with parchment or waxed paper between each. Transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag — stored in the fridge, they’ll stay soft and tasty for up to 3 days (if they last that long!).

Freezing

Absolutely freezer-friendly! Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. This trick keeps them from sticking together, so you can pull out just what you need. Apple Cinnamon Pancakes keep beautifully for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To revive their fresh-off-the-griddle texture, reheat pancakes in a toaster, warm oven, or right on a skillet. Microwave works in a pinch, but I love the slightly crisped edges you get from dry-heating! Top with reserved apple mixture or a drizzle of syrup before serving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope these Apple Cinnamon Pancakes bring extra joy and warmth to your next breakfast or brunch! There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen — so gather your favorite people, stack ’em high, and savor every fluffy, golden bite. Happy cooking, friend!

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