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These apple ring pancakes are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite perfect for cozy weekend mornings or whenever you want a comforting treat. The combination of tender pancake batter and slightly crisp apple rings brings a playful texture and natural sweetness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I first made these when craving pancakes but wanted something with a fruity edge. It quickly became a staple since it’s both fun to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
- One cup plain yogurt: adds moisture and a slight tang keeping the pancakes tender and light. Choose full fat yogurt for richer flavor
- Two large eggs: provide structure and help the batter hold together while cooking
- One teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the sweetness naturally present in the apples and adds warmth
- Two tablespoons sugar: balance the tartness of the apples and deepen the flavor
- One tablespoon melted butter: makes the batter richer and helps create a golden crust on frying
- Quarter teaspoon salt: heightens the flavors in the pancake batter
- One and a half teaspoons baking powder: give the pancakes a nice rise, making them fluffy without being dense
- One cup flour: is the base. Use all-purpose for a tender but sturdy pancake
- Four small soft apples: work best. Gala apples are recommended because they are sweet, tender, and keep their shape well when fried
- Clarified butter or vegetable oil for frying: ensures a non-stick surface and adds a subtle nutty flavor. Clarified butter has a higher smoke point but oil works fine for a neutral taste
Instructions
- Build The Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder until the mixture is smooth. This blends all the flavors and distributes the rising agent evenly.
- Add The Flour:
- Gradually mix in the flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and airy which creates the best texture in the pancakes.
- Prepare The Apples:
- Peel and core the apples carefully then slice into rings about one third of an inch thick. Getting even thickness ensures that they cook consistently when fried.
- Heat The Pan:
- Warm your non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add clarified butter or vegetable oil. It needs to be hot enough for the batter to start sizzling immediately which forms a golden crust.
- Dip And Fry:
- Dip each apple ring into the batter coating it thoroughly. Place the coated apple rings carefully into the pan and fry until golden on the first side which should take a couple of minutes.
- Flip And Finish:
- Turn each pancake apple ring once the bottom is nicely browned and cook the second side until golden too. This usually takes about equal time as the first side.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the apple ring pancakes warm with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or any favorite toppings you prefer such as maple syrup or whipped cream.
My favorite part is the crispy edges of the apple rings which balance beautifully with the soft pancake batter. I remember making these with my little one who loved helping dip each ring into the batter and getting flour all over the counter. It quickly became a joyful family tradition.
Storage Tips
Apple ring pancakes are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to bring back some crispness. Avoid microwaving as they tend to get soggy.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap plain yogurt for Greek yogurt to make the pancakes a bit thicker and more protein rich but you may need to add a splash of milk or water to loosen the batter. Use any sweet apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp if Gala is unavailable. For frying butter flavor, coconut oil can offer a subtle coconut note that pairs well with apples.
Serving Ideas
These pancakes are delicious with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of real maple syrup. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into a dessert. A sprinkle of toasted nuts adds nice texture contrast.
Enjoy these apple ring pancakes warm for a comforting breakfast or snack that’s sure to brighten your day.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best for these pancakes?
Soft, sweet varieties like Gala apples are ideal as they slice well and offer a pleasant balance of sweetness and tartness.
- → Can I substitute yogurt in the batter?
Plain yogurt provides moisture and tenderness; however, buttermilk or sour cream can be used for a similar effect.
- → Why use clarified butter for frying?
Clarified butter has a higher smoke point than regular butter, allowing the pancakes to cook evenly without burning.
- → How thick should the apple rings be sliced?
Slicing apple rings about 1/3 inch thick ensures they cook through while maintaining structure during frying.
- → What toppings complement these apple ring pancakes?
Powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream enhance the natural flavors beautifully.