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This apple ring pancake recipe turns simple breakfast staples into a delightful treat that feels a bit like fall morning magic no matter the season. The tender apple rings encased in fluffy pancakes with a hint of cinnamon make mornings special and bring a sweet crunch that keeps every bite interesting. Whether you want something quick to whip up or a fun weekend brunch idea, these pancakes hit the spot.
I first made these on a lazy Sunday morning, and my whole family was intrigued by the apple rings peeking through the pancakes. Now they ask for them whenever apples are in season.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: helps create a tender and light pancake base
- Sugar: adds just a touch of sweetness but you can adjust based on taste
- Baking powder: ensures the pancakes rise nicely and stay fluffy
- Salt: to balance the flavors and enhance sweetness from the sugar and apples
- Milk: provides moisture and richness; whole milk works best but any kind will do
- One large egg: binds the batter while adding structure and softness
- Unsalted butter, melted: adds richness and flavor without overwhelming saltiness
- Two large apples: such as Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness, cored and sliced into rings about one quarter inch thick, the star of this recipe
- Cinnamon: brings warm spice and complements the apples perfectly
- Lemon juice: prevents the apple rings from browning and adds a little zing
- Butter or oil for cooking: ensures pancakes don’t stick and get a nice golden crust
- Maple syrup for serving: optional but makes a perfect finish for extra sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare the apple rings:
- Core the apples and slice them into rings about one quarter inch thick. Mix the rings with lemon juice and cinnamon in a bowl and let them sit for about ten minutes so the cinnamon flavor penetrates and the lemon prevents browning.
- Make the batter:
- In a large bowl combine the flour sugar baking powder and salt. In another bowl whisk together the milk egg and melted butter until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing so the pancakes stay tender with some small lumps.
- Heat and coat the skillet:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and coat with butter or oil for an even cooking surface.
- Coat apple rings and cook:
- Dip each apple ring into the pancake batter making sure it is fully coated. Place the coated ring onto the skillet then immediately pour a little additional batter on top to help the ring stick inside the pancake and create a nice fluffy edge. Cook for about three to four minutes until the edges look set and bubbles start to appear on the surface then carefully flip.
- Finish cooking:
- Cook the other side for two to three minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with remaining batter and apples, wiping the skillet between batches if needed to prevent burning.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with maple syrup if desired for that extra perfect touch of sweetness.
My favorite ingredient here is the apple ring itself. It’s fun to see the apple peeking through the pancake batter and it adds a juicy sweet tartness you don’t get with plain pancakes. I remember a cozy fall morning when my kids asked if they could help dip the rings and flip the pancakes, and those little shared moments made the recipe even better.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to keep them crisp on the outside. You can also freeze cooled pancakes stacked with parchment paper in between and thaw overnight in the fridge.
Ingredient substitutions
Use oat milk almond milk or any plant based milk instead of dairy milk to make this dairy free. Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or any neutral oil if needed. Try different apple varieties like Fuji or Pink Lady for varying sweetness and texture. You can swap sugar for honey or maple syrup in the batter for a natural sweetness boost.
Serving suggestions
These pancakes pair beautifully with classic maple syrup but also try whipped cream Greek yogurt or nut butter for a rich topping. Add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins into the batter for an extra texture surprise. Serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a balanced brunch plate.
Serve warm with maple syrup for a perfect finish. These apple ring pancakes make mornings feel special.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and complement the sweet batter.
- → How thick should apple rings be sliced?
Slice apple rings about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking and balance between softness and texture.
- → Why soak apple rings in lemon and cinnamon?
The lemon prevents browning and adds brightness, while cinnamon infuses warm spice for enhanced flavor.
- → Can I use oil instead of butter for cooking?
Yes, both oil or butter work well to prevent sticking and achieve a golden crust.
- → Is maple syrup necessary to serve?
Maple syrup is optional but adds a lovely natural sweetness that complements the apples and batter.