1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Slowly add the melted butter to the wet mixture, whisking continuously.
3. Combine and Add Apples:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Fold in the grated apple until evenly distributed.
4. Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a warm plate and cover to keep warm while you cook the remaining batter.
- Serve the pancakes warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh apple slices, or whipped cream.
Tips for Perfect Apple Pancakes:
- Use fresh, firm apples: Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up well in the batter.
- Grate the apples finely: This helps them cook evenly and distribute throughout the pancakes.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in tough pancakes. Mix until just combined.
- Keep pancakes warm: Place cooked pancakes in a low oven (200°F or 90°C) to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest.
Variations:
- Apple Cinnamon Pancakes: Add a pinch more cinnamon and a handful of chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Apple Caramel Pancakes: Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
- Healthy Apple Pancakes: Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour and reduce the sugar.
Conclusion
These fluffy Apple Pancakes are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fall. With their tender texture and delightful apple-cinnamon taste, they are sure to become a family favorite. Serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a breakfast that’s both comforting and delicious. Enjoy your cozy morning with these delightful pancakes!