Start your morning right with a stack of fluffy apple pancakes! These pancakes are light, airy, and packed with sweet chunks of apple, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors in every bite. A hint of fresh lemon zest adds a refreshing twist, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the apples. This recipe is simple and quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy mornings or a cozy weekend breakfast. Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for a comforting dish that will satisfy your morning cravings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving up breakfast for the family, these apple pancakes are sure to be a hit!
2. Ingredients
2 eggs
50g (¼ cup) sugar
50ml (⅕ cup) milk
1 lemon, zest only
30ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
150g (1 ¼ cups) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
100g apples (about one apple), chopped
Maple syrup, to taste
3. Directions
Prepare the Apples:
Cut the apple into small pieces using a cutting board and a knife. Set aside.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and grated lemon zest. Mix with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Add the Milk and Oil:
Pour in the milk and vegetable oil. Stir the mixture until the liquids are fully absorbed.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the mixture, stirring continuously until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Add the Apples:
Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Heat the Pan:
Place a non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush a small amount of vegetable oil onto the pan’s surface.
Cook the Pancakes:
Pour about 2 tablespoons of batter into the pan. Shape it into a circle if needed. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake.
Flip and Finish Cooking:
Flip the pancake and cook for another 2 minutes, or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining batter.
Serve:
Stack the warm pancakes on a plate and drizzle with maple syrup. Enjoy!
4. How to Prepare
Preparing these apple pancakes is easy, but following a few key steps will ensure the best results. Be sure to mix the wet ingredients until they are completely smooth before adding the dry ingredients, which helps prevent lumps in the batter. Use a medium heat when cooking the pancakes, as too high a heat can cause them to brown quickly on the outside while remaining raw in the middle. Adding the apples last helps maintain their texture, creating delicious bites of apple in every pancake. Brush the pan lightly with oil between batches to keep the pancakes from sticking and to get a nice golden color.
5. Preparation Time
Active Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes about 10-12 pancakes, serving 3-4 people.
7. FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apples?
A1: Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or even berries for a different flavor. Adjust the sugar slightly if you use a sweeter fruit.
Q2: How can I make the pancakes fluffier?
A2: Ensure that the baking powder is fresh, as it’s crucial for fluffiness. You can also separate the egg whites, whip them until stiff, and fold them into the batter for extra airy pancakes.
Q3: Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
A3: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
Q4: What can I use if I don’t have fresh lemons?
A4: If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can substitute with ½ teaspoon of lemon extract for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can omit it if you prefer a more traditional apple pancake taste.
Q5: How can I store leftover pancakes?
A5: You can store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster or skillet over low heat. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.
8. Conclusion
These fluffy apple pancakes with a hint of lemon zest are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The combination of soft, fluffy pancakes with chunks of sweet apples and a touch of citrus makes them light yet satisfying. They are easy to make with pantry staples, and the recipe is flexible enough to accommodate other fruits if you want to experiment. Drizzled with maple syrup, these pancakes make a cozy and delicious morning meal that will be loved by kids and adults alike. Whip up a batch on a lazy weekend morning, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as you cook these delicious treats!
