Fluffy, warm, and spiced with cinnamon, these apple cinnamon pancakes are the ultimate fall breakfast treat. Made with grated apples and topped with a maple-glazed cinnamon apple topping, they are cozy, sweet, and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re serving these pancakes on a lazy weekend morning or for a special fall brunch, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Perfect for Fall
Grated apples and cinnamon make these pancakes ideal for cozy autumn mornings. The warm apple topping with maple syrup enhances the seasonal flavors beautifully.
2. Easy to Make
Just like regular pancakes, these apple cinnamon pancakes are simple to prepare. You can even use a pancake mix to speed up the process!
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes
For the Pancake Batter:
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup (60 ml) oil
- 1 ½ cups (300 ml) milk
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and shredded
For the Cinnamon Apple Topping:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the oil and milk, whisking until well combined.
3. Combine and Fold in Apples
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Some lumps are fine—don’t overmix. Fold in the shredded apples. Let the batter rest for a few minutes while preheating the skillet.
4. Cook the Pancakes
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over low-medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Using a ¼ cup (59 ml) measuring cup, pour the batter onto the hot skillet.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until bubbles form and pop on the surface of the pancake. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Make the Apple Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon, stirring to combine. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Top the warm pancakes with the maple-glazed cinnamon apples and a drizzle of maple syrup. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or add whipped cream.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pancakes and apple topping in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Pancakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven.
- Reheat the Topping: Warm the apple topping in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave before serving.
Topping Suggestions
- Maple-Glazed Apples: The perfect pairing for these fall pancakes.
- Air Fryer Apples: A crispy alternative for a delicious topping.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of sugar adds a sweet finishing touch.
- Extra Maple Syrup: Because you can never have too much!
Apple cinnamon pancakes are a deliciously cozy way to start your day. With grated apples folded into the batter and a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple topping, this fall breakfast feels like a comforting hug. Whether you’re enjoying them with family on a chilly morning or making a batch for meal prep, these pancakes are sure to be a hit!
FAQ Section
Q: What type of apples should I use for apple pancakes?
A: Tart apples like Granny Smith are great for balance, but you can also use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a naturally sweet flavor.
Q: Can I make the pancake batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Stir it gently before cooking.
Q: How do I keep pancakes warm while cooking multiple batches?
A: Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven to keep them warm while you finish the rest.
Q: Can I freeze apple cinnamon pancakes?
A: Absolutely! Let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave, toaster, or oven.
Q: Can I use a pancake mix instead of making the batter from scratch?
A: Yes! Simply prepare the pancake mix as directed, then fold in the shredded apples and cinnamon for a fall twist.