The Ultimate Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Oh, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the aroma of a cozy breakfast, especially when it’s filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon and sweet apples. I find that some mornings just call for something extra special, and that’s exactly what I have for you today: my absolute favorite Apple Cinnamon Pancakes. They’re perfectly fluffy, bursting with warm apple spice, and surprisingly easy to make. In just about 30-40 minutes, you can transform your kitchen into a breakfast haven.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

I truly believe these aren’t just any pancakes; they’re a little slice of heaven on a plate. If you’re a fan of cozy breakfast recipes, you’ll love exploring all the options on our site. Here’s why I know you’ll adore them:

• Perfectly Fluffy Every Time: I’ll share my secret to achieving that coveted light, airy texture that makes every bite pure bliss.
• Rich, Balanced Flavor: The combination of tender, spiced apples and a hint of cinnamon in the pancake batter creates a harmonious taste that’s both comforting and bright.
• Simple & Approachable: Even if you’re new to pancake making, my clear steps and helpful tips will guide you to success.
• An Irresistible Topping: The warm, buttery apple cinnamon topping isn’t just an addition, it’s the star of the show, taking these pancakes from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients for Your Best Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

I’ve carefully selected each ingredient to ensure you get the most flavorful and fluffy Apple Cinnamon Pancakes imaginable. Every item plays a vital role in achieving that perfect texture and taste.

For the Fluffy Pancakes

Here’s what you’ll need to create those light-as-air pancakes:

• ¾ cup milk: I find whole milk gives the best richness, but any milk will do.
• 1 ½ tablespoons vinegar: This creates a homemade buttermilk when combined with the milk, which reacts with the baking soda for incredible lift and tenderness.
• 1 cup flour: All-purpose flour is my go-to for these pancakes.
• 3 tablespoons sugar: Just enough to sweeten the batter without making it overly sweet, letting the apple topping shine.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warm spice infuses the pancakes with that classic comforting flavor. If you really love cinnamon, you can add another ½ teaspoon!
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: A key leavening agent that helps the pancakes rise beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: This reacts with the vinegar to create even more fluffiness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness and structure.
• 2 tablespoons oil: Adds moisture and helps keep the pancakes tender.

For the Spiced Apple Topping

This warm, buttery, spiced apple topping is truly what sets these pancakes apart:

• 2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, smooth base for the apples to cook in.
• 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced): The star of the topping! Dicing them ensures they cook evenly.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Enhances the natural sweetness of the apples with warm spice.
• ⅓ cup maple syrup: Adds a final touch of pure, natural sweetness and a lovely glaze to the topping.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: Step-by-Step

Let’s get cooking! I’ve broken down the process into easy-to-follow steps so you can create these delicious pancakes with confidence.

For the Fluffy Pancakes

step 1

1. Preheat a skillet to medium-high heat (275 degrees).
2. Whisk together the milk and vinegar in a medium bowl and allow to rest for 5 minutes. You’ll see it start to curdle slightly, which is exactly what you want.

step 2

1. While the milk is curdling, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. This ensures all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

step 3

1. Whisk the egg and oil into the milk mixture. Now, pour these wet ingredients into your dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Remember, don’t over-mix; it should still have some small lumps.

step 4

1. Spray your preheated skillet with cooking spray. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook for about 2 minutes until you see bubbles forming on the surface and the edges start to look “dry.” Use a spatula to carefully flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side until golden brown. Set your cooked pancakes aside and repeat with the remaining batter.

For the Spiced Apple Topping

step

1. Add butter, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon to a medium saucepan. Stir these ingredients together over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until the apples become very tender.

step 2

1. Stir in the maple syrup. This creates a beautiful, glossy glaze. Serve this warm apple topping generously over your freshly made pancakes!

Expert Tips for Fluffy Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference when it comes to perfect pancakes. Let me share my secrets with you!

Mastering Your Batter

Achieving the perfect batter consistency is key. My biggest tip is to embrace the lumps! When I say “don’t over-mix,” I truly mean it. Stir just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined. A few small lumps are a sign of perfectly tender pancakes to come. If your batter feels too thick, a tiny splash more milk can help, but avoid making it too thin, or your pancakes might spread too much.

Griddle & Flipping Prowess

Temperature control is your best friend. I always preheat my griddle for a good 5-10 minutes before adding any batter. You’ll know it’s ready if a drop of water dances and evaporates quickly. Cook your pancakes over medium-high heat; too low and they’ll be tough, too high and they’ll burn outside and be raw inside. Watch for those bubbles on the surface and slightly dry edges; that’s your cue to flip! A confident, quick flip with a good spatula prevents tearing.

Buttermilk Wisdom

The homemade buttermilk trick using milk and vinegar is fantastic for getting that signature tangy flavor and incredible fluffiness. If you happen to have real buttermilk on hand, you can absolutely use it; just swap it directly for the milk and vinegar in the recipe. If you buy buttermilk and don’t use it all, I love to freeze the extra in ice cube trays. Once solid, I transfer the cubes to a freezer bag, and then I have pre-portioned buttermilk ready for my next pancake craving!

Making Ahead & Storage for Your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

I know how busy mornings can be, so I love making things ahead! These Apple Cinnamon Pancakes are great for meal prepping.

Meal Prep Like a Pro

• Batter Ahead: You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. The wet ingredients (minus the vinegar) can also be pre-mixed and refrigerated. Just before cooking, combine them, add the vinegar to the milk if making homemade buttermilk, and proceed with the recipe. I generally find batter is best made fresh, but you can certainly do a significant portion of the prep. If you’re looking for other delicious make-ahead breakfast recipes, our Ultimate Pumpkin Banana Bread is a fantastic choice.
• Pre-chop Apples: Peel, core, and dice your apples the night before. Store them in an airtight container with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. This saves precious time in the morning!

Storing Leftovers

• Cooked Pancakes: Once your pancakes are completely cool, stack them with a piece of parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Apple Topping: Allow the apple topping to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Beyond the Syrup: Creative Serving Ideas for Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

While my spiced apple topping and a drizzle of maple syrup are divine, sometimes I like to get creative! Here are some other serving ideas to elevate your Apple Cinnamon Pancakes:

• Creamy Additions: A dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a swirl of Greek yogurt adds a delightful creamy contrast.
• Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or toasted almonds for extra texture. A sprinkle of granola can also be lovely.
• Sweet Sauces: A drizzle of caramel sauce, a spoonful of apple butter, or even a berry compote can create new flavor dimensions.
• Complementary Sides: Pair your pancakes with crispy bacon, savory sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded breakfast spread.
• Drink Pairings: A hot cup of coffee, a warm chai latte, or a refreshing glass of orange juice all make wonderful companions to these cozy pancakes. If you love the taste of cooked apples, you might also enjoy our Amazing Crockpot Apple Crisp dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions about Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

I know you might have a few questions as you embark on your pancake journey. Here are some of the most common ones I hear:

Q: Can I use different fruits instead of apples? A: Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries would also be delicious in the topping. Adjust cooking times as needed for softer fruits.

Q: My pancakes aren’t rising. What went wrong? A: Most likely, your baking powder or baking soda might be old. Always check their expiry dates! Also, be sure not to overmix the batter.

Q: Can I make the batter completely ahead of time? A: For the absolute fluffiest pancakes, I recommend making the batter right before cooking. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients and wet ingredients (separately, excluding the vinegar for the buttermilk) and combine them just before cooking.

Q: How do I know when the skillet is hot enough? A: A good test is to flick a few drops of water onto the skillet. If they sizzle and dance around, it’s ready! If they evaporate instantly, it’s too hot; if they just sit there, it’s not hot enough.

Nutrition Information

Please note, the following nutrition information is an estimate per serving based on the ingredients listed and standard portion sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands, preparation methods, and exact serving sizes.

• Calories: ~350-400 kcal
• Fat: ~12-15g
• Protein: ~7-9g
• Carbohydrates: ~55-60g

Conclusion

If you enjoyed these Apple Cinnamon Pancakes, I know you’ll find more favorites on whatwillcook.com! Here are a few other recipes I think you’ll love:

• Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes: Another classic, bursting with juicy blueberries.
• Easy Lemon Ricotta Pancakes: For a lighter, tangier, and incredibly tender breakfast treat.
• Overnight Oats with Berries: A perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings.
• Savory Breakfast Hash: If you’re craving something hearty and flavorful for brunch.

I truly hope these Apple Cinnamon Pancakes bring a little extra warmth and joy to your kitchen and your breakfast table. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of creating something delicious with your own hands.

I would absolutely love to hear from you! What are your favorite apple varieties to use in baking? Do you have any go-to pancake topping ideas? Share your thoughts, ask any questions you might have, or tell me about your pancake-making adventures in the comments below! Happy cooking!