Craving a wholesome breakfast that’s both delicious and easy to make? These Greek Yogurt Apple Pancakes are a perfect way to enjoy healthy apple recipes. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these fluffy, fruit-filled pancakes for a delightful start to your day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Greek Yogurt: Use plain, unsweetened. Full-fat or low-fat works well.
- Apples: Any crisp eating apple like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp is great. You can also use apple puree for a smoother texture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: All-purpose flour can be substituted, but whole wheat adds fiber.
- Milk: Any type of dairy or non-dairy milk (almond, soy) is fine.
- Baking Powder: Essential for fluffy pancakes.
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice. Nutmeg is another good option.
Ingredients:
Pancake Batter:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (or maple syrup)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
Apple Topping (Optional, but recommended!):
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 (about 8-10 pancakes)
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (without toppings)
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, whisk, non-stick skillet or griddle, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps for an even batter.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg, Greek yogurt, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the melted butter.
3. Mix Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a whisk or spoon until just combined; a few lumps are fine. Do not overmix, as this can lead to tough pancakes.
4. Prepare Optional Apple Topping
In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender. Set aside.
5. Cook the Pancakes
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface.
6. Flip and Finish Cooking
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles form on the surface. Flip carefully and cook the other side until done. Serve immediately with your warm apple topping, if using.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Berries: Fold in a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture.
- Spiced Batter: Increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg to the pancake batter for extra warmth.
- Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, fresh flavor.
Storage Instructions:
You can store leftover Greek Yogurt Apple Pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in a toaster, microwave, or on a skillet until warm through. For longer storage, freeze cooled pancakes between sheets of parchment paper for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- What if my batter is too thick? Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Can I prepare the batter ahead of time? While best made fresh, you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine just before cooking for the fluffiest results.
- What are other healthy apple recipes I can make? You can try baked apples, apple oatmeal, or apple slices with nut butter.
- Why are my pancakes not fluffy? Overmixing the batter can develop the gluten, leading to tougher, flatter pancakes. Mix just until combined.
- Do I have to peel the apples? Peeling is optional; if you prefer the skin, you can leave it on, especially for the topping.
