Name: Apple Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground ginger; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 eggs; ¾ cup milk of choice; ½ cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 apple, peeled or unpeeled, grated (about 1 cup); Butter or oil for greasing the skillet

Why You’ll Love Apple Pancakes Recipe

It’s full of cozy, apple‑cinnamon flavor that feels like fall in every bite.

Uses simple everyday ingredients you probably already have.

Great for making ahead — leftovers freeze and reheat well.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup buttermilk or homemade buttermilk
1 cup white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour or all‑purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup grated apple (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
Avocado oil or vegetable oil for greasing the pan

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In a smaller bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla. Whisk until blended.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and add the grated apple. Stir just until combined (a few small lumps are okay). Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium‑low heat. Lightly grease with a little oil.
Scoop about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook 2–3 minutes until bubbles form on top and edges look matte.
Flip and cook 1–2 more minutes until golden and cooked through.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, butter, yogurt, or fruit.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 8–9 pancakes (enough for around 4 people).
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten‑free version: Swap in a gluten‑free flour blend instead of wheat flour.
Vegan option: Use dairy‑free milk with vinegar for buttermilk and replace the egg with a flax egg.
Extra spice: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for more warm flavor.
Add‑ins: Fold in chopped nuts or raisins for texture and sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze pancakes in a single layer with parchment between them for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave, toaster oven, or skillet before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes. Apples like Gala, Fuji, or Braeburn work well depending on how sweet or tart you want the pancakes.

Do I need to peel the apples before grating?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds nutrition and texture.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

You can make the batter and refrigerate it briefly, but pancakes are best cooked soon after mixing.

How do I make homemade buttermilk?

Stir 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into 1 cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes.

What toppings go well with apple pancakes?

Try maple syrup, butter, yogurt, warm fruit compote, or nut butter.

Can I substitute the egg?

You can try a flax or chia egg, though texture may be slightly different.

Are these pancakes healthy?

They contain whole grain options and fresh apples, making them more nutritious than basic pancakes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply multiply ingredients to make a larger batch.

What griddle temperature should I use?

Medium‑low heat works best to cook through without burning.

Why should the batter rest before cooking?

Resting helps the flour absorb moisture for fluffier pancakes.

Conclusion

These apple pancakes are a cozy, delicious way to enjoy fresh apples any morning. They’re simple to prepare, adaptable to dietary needs, and great for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.