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Pancakes with Healthy Caramelized Apples

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Fluffy, whole-grain pancakes topped with warm, lightly caramelized apples for a wholesome breakfast that feels indulgent but uses minimal added sugar. Perfectly spiced, cozy, and adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole-wheat flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (plus more to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp melted butter or oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 small apple, finely diced or grated
  • 2 medium apples (for topping), peeled or unpeeled, diced or sliced
  • 1 tsp butter or oil (for caramelizing)
  • 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
  • Optional: splash of lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized apples first. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter or oil.
  2. Add diced or sliced apples with a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring, until the apples soften and lightly caramelize. Add lemon juice if desired, then remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine milk, eggs, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract.
  5. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined—do not overmix. Fold in the finely diced or grated apple.
  6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it.
  7. Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form and the edges look set (2–3 minutes), then flip and cook another 2 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
  8. Stack the pancakes on plates, top with the warm caramelized apples, and drizzle with a touch of honey, maple syrup, or yogurt if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix pancake batter—small lumps are fine and help keep pancakes fluffy.
  • To make dairy-free, use plant milk and oil instead of butter.
  • For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Keep pancakes warm in a low oven (90–100 °C / 200 °F) until ready to serve.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pancakes-with-healthy-caramelized-apples/