Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with my Apple Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes! These fluffy delights combine sweet grated apples, crunchy walnuts, and a rich streusel topping to create breakfast bliss. Imagine flipping pancakes that taste like a cozy apple pie. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a simple morning treat, you’ll want to keep this recipe close. Let’s dive into making this irresistible breakfast classic!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients List
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
In this recipe, the dry ingredients set the base for our pancakes. All-purpose flour gives structure. Baking powder and baking soda help the pancakes rise. Ground cinnamon adds that warm, cozy flavor. Lastly, salt enhances all the flavors.
Wet Ingredients List
– 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the wet mix, we need buttermilk for moisture and tanginess. You can use a vinegar-and-milk mix if you don’t have buttermilk. The egg binds everything together. Melted butter adds richness and flavor to the batter.
Additional Ingredients
– 1 medium apple, peeled and grated (preferably Granny Smith)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Grated apple brings sweetness and moisture. Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness. If you like nuts, chopped walnuts add crunch and flavor.
Streusel Topping Ingredients
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into small pieces
The streusel topping is key to making these pancakes special. Rolled oats add texture. Brown sugar and cinnamon create a sweet, warm flavor. Cold butter helps form those lovely crumbly bits.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Streusel Topping
To make the streusel, mix the following dry ingredients in a small bowl:
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Next, cut in 1 tablespoon of cold butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix it until it looks crumbly. Set this aside for later.
Making the Pancake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together these dry ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
In another bowl, mix these wet ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with vinegar)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are some lumps.
Combining Ingredients
Now, fold in these two ingredients:
– 1 medium apple, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Be gentle when mixing. This keeps the batter light and fluffy.
Cooking the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil. For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet. Before flipping, sprinkle a tablespoon of streusel topping on each pancake.
Flipping and Finishing
Cook the pancakes for 3-4 minutes. Look for bubbles forming on the surface. When you see them, it’s time to flip. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Stack the pancakes on a plate. Drizzle them with maple syrup and sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for added flavor. Enjoy your warm, delicious pancakes!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Pancake Fluffiness
To make fluffy pancakes, do not overmix the batter. Stir just until the dry and wet ingredients blend. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing leads to tough pancakes.
For even cooking, heat your skillet on medium. If it’s too hot, the pancakes burn outside and stay raw inside. A properly heated skillet cooks them evenly.
Choosing the Right Apple
Granny Smith apples are my favorite for pancakes. They are tart and firm. Their crunch adds a great texture. Other good choices include Honeycrisp or Fuji. These apples are sweet and juicy, giving your pancakes a nice flavor.
Different apples change the taste and feel of your pancakes. Tart apples keep the dish balanced, while sweeter ones make it richer.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Variations
For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk mixed with vinegar. Almond or soy milk works well. You can also use coconut milk for a creamy texture.
If you’re vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes before adding it to the batter. This keeps your pancakes moist and fluffy.
Variations
Adding Fruits or Nuts
You can mix in other fruits to the batter. Bananas, blueberries, or strawberries add sweetness. Each fruit brings a unique flavor and texture. Adding nuts like pecans or almonds gives a nice crunch. Nuts also add healthy fats and protein. If you choose nuts, chop them finely for even mixing.
Spicing It Up
Try adding different spices for a flavor boost. Nutmeg or ginger can add warmth and depth. You might also like a pinch of cardamom for a hint of floral notes. For a savory twist, mix in cooked bacon bits or cheese. This gives your pancakes a new and exciting flavor.
Syrup and Sauce Ideas
Homemade syrup can take your pancakes to the next level. Try cooking down apples with sugar and cinnamon for a sweet sauce. You can also use maple syrup for a classic touch. Pair your pancakes with fruit compotes like berry or peach for a fresh taste. Each option enhances the overall pancake experience.
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Pancakes
To keep leftover pancakes fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap to cover them tightly. In the fridge, they will last up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option.
Freezing Pancakes
To freeze pancakes, stack them with parchment paper between each one. Wrap the stack in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them.
Reheating Instructions
You can reheat pancakes in several ways. The best method is using a skillet on low heat. This helps keep them fluffy. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just place a damp paper towel over them to maintain moisture. Heat for about 20 seconds at a time until warm.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Cinnamon Streusel Pancakes without buttermilk?
Yes, you can. Use 1 cup of milk and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes. This mixture acts like buttermilk and works well in the recipe.
How do I know when pancakes are done cooking?
Look for bubbles forming on the surface. When they pop, it’s time to flip. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Can I substitute the egg in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This gives a similar texture but can make pancakes a bit denser.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
You can use pecans, almonds, or sunflower seeds. These options add crunch and flavor without changing the recipe too much.
How can I make the streusel topping crunchy?
Use cold butter and mix it well with the dry ingredients. Ensure you leave small chunks of butter. This helps create that nice, crunchy texture when baked.
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Cook the pancakes and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer. To reheat, warm them in a toaster or microwave.
These apple cinnamon streusel pancakes are easy to make and full of flavor. You learned about the right ingredients, steps, and tips for a perfect stack. Remember, mixing well and choosing the right apples enhances texture and taste.
You can change things up with different fruits or spices. These pancakes freeze well, so make extra for busy mornings. Enjoy making them for yourself or sharing with family. Happy cooking!
