There’s something delightful about the first cool breezes of fall that beckon for cozy breakfasts and relaxed family gatherings. As I set to work in the kitchen, the scent of cinnamon and caramelized apples fills the air, transporting me back to cherished mornings spent with loved ones, savoring every bite of a freshly baked apple pancake. Inspired by the beloved Original Pancake House recipe, this version captures that nostalgic comfort while adding my own special touch.
What makes this apple pancake so irresistible is its perfect balance of fluffy texture and gooey, caramelized fruit. Each bite showcases tart Granny Smith apples nestled within a custardy pancake, creating a sweet harmony that pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar. If you’re ready to turn your kitchen into a haven of warmth and deliciousness, let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why is the Original Pancake House Apple Pancake a Must-Try?
Irresistible Comfort: This recipe brings the warmth of nostalgia into your kitchen, perfect for chilly mornings.
Decadent Flavor: Juicy Granny Smith apples sautéed in butter and brown sugar deliver a delightful sweetness with a hint of tartness.
Easy to Prepare: You’ll only need one bowl and a skillet to whip up this delicious dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Variations Galore: Feel free to experiment—try adding pie spices or swapping apples for pears to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s an impressive dish for brunch gatherings, sure to wow your family and friends, creating lasting memories around the table.
Original Pancake House Apple Pancake Ingredients
For the Pancake Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed for a fluffy pancake; can be substituted with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Sugar – Sweetens the batter; you can reduce the amount for a less sweet pancake.
- Baking Powder – This leavening agent is essential for that airy texture; don’t forget to include it!
- Salt – A pinch balances the flavors; omit if following a low-sodium diet.
- Milk – Binds the batter together; feel free to use dairy-free alternatives for versatility.
- Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients; flax eggs can be used for a vegan option and still achieve that fluffy texture.
For the Apple Filling
- Granny Smith Apples – Their tartness balances the sweetness of the dish beautifully; any firm, tart apple can be used if preferred.
- Butter – Used for sautéing the apples, infusing them with rich flavor; consider alternative fats for a dairy-free version.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the apples and enhances their caramelization; white sugar can be swapped, but the essence will change.
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the mix; for extra depth, apple pie spice or nutmeg can be substituted.
For the Finishing Touch
- Powdered Sugar – An optional dusting to finish off your pancake, adding a sweet touch; cocoa powder makes an interesting alternative for a different flavor profile.
This delightful Original Pancake House Apple Pancake recipe invites all the cozy flavors of fall into your home, making breakfast a cherished experience.
How to Make Original Pancake House Apple Pancake
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for a perfectly baked pancake. This ensures a nice, fluffy texture once it’s ready.
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Prepare apples: Peel and thinly slice the Granny Smith apples. Aim for even slices to ensure they cook evenly and incorporate nicely into the pancake.
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Sauté apples: In a skillet, melt the butter on medium heat, then add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sauté the apple slices until they are caramelized and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Allow them to cool slightly before mixing with the batter.
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Make batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and eggs. Mix until just combined—don’t worry about lumps, they help create a tender pancake!
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Assemble: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the cooled apples across the bottom. Pour the pancake batter over the apples, ensuring they are fully covered.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly jiggly.
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Flip onto a plate: Once baked, carefully invert the pancake onto a plate, revealing the caramelized apple topping. Serve warm, with a light dusting of powdered sugar for that finishing touch.
Optional: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Original Pancake House Apple Pancake?
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast experience by pairing this fluffy pancake with something equally delicious!
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweetness of the pancake, balancing flavors beautifully. The savory notes are a perfect counterpoint to the soft, fruity goodness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the overall taste with its juicy burst. Opt for seasonal fruits to align with the fall flavors.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup elevates the natural sweetness, bringing a warmth that harmonizes with the apple pancake’s rich flavor. Serve it alongside for dipping!
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Spiced Coffee: A cup of spiced coffee or chai adds warmth and coziness to your breakfast table, perfectly pairing with the cinnamon notes in the pancake.
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Whipped Cream: Add a luscious dollop of homemade whipped cream for a decadent finishing touch that makes every bite feel like a celebration.
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Crispy Hash Browns: The golden, crispy texture of hash browns provides a hearty contrast to the soft pancake, creating a satisfying and filling meal.
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Cinnamon Sugar Toast: For a nostalgic touch, serve a side of cinnamon sugar toast, echoing the pancake’s flavors while adding a crunchy element.
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Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of hot chocolate brings a delightful sweetness to your brunch experience, making it extra special for the whole family!
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for an added dose of creaminess and crunch that pairs beautifully with the pancake.
How to Store and Freeze Original Pancake House Apple Pancake
- Fridge: Store leftover apple pancake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a few minutes to restore its warmth.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the heating time.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the apple filling a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Re-sauté just before mixing it into the batter for a fresh taste.
- Reheating: For best results, microwave individual slices or use a toaster oven to heat until warm throughout, ensuring a delightful texture and flavor reminiscent of the Original Pancake House Apple Pancake.
Original Pancake House Apple Pancake Variations
Feel free to elevate your pancake experience with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular milk for almond or oat milk for a delicious, dairy-free option.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
- Fruit Alternatives: Experiment with pears or peaches instead of apples for a unique fruity profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal kick that dances on the palate.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added texture that perfectly complements the fluffy pancake.
- Sweeten the Deal: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a more robust flavor and natural sweetness.
- Add Fruit: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins in the batter for little bursts of sweetness in every bite!
- Double the Apples: Layer more caramelized apples on top after baking for an even fruitier experience that enhances the classic flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Original Pancake House Apple Pancake
- Cool the Apples: Let the sautéed apples cool before adding them to the batter. This prevents cooking the eggs prematurely, ensuring a fluffy pancake.
- Don’t Overmix: Aim for a few lumps when mixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense pancake instead of the light, airy texture you want.
- Baking Time Awareness: If you double the recipe, be vigilant about the baking time—thicker layers might require additional cooking for even doneness.
- Even Apple Slices: Slice your apples evenly for uniform cooking. Uneven pieces can result in some apples being too crunchy while others are overly soft.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add apple pie spice or chopped nuts into the batter for unique flavor twists while still enjoying the core Original Pancake House Apple Pancake experience.
- Serve Fresh: This pancake is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, maintaining its cozy warmth and heartiness—pair with a dusting of powdered sugar for delightful indulgence!
Make Ahead Options
These Original Pancake House Apple Pancakes are perfect for busy mornings when you crave a cozy breakfast without the hassle! You can prepare the sautéed apples up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in the refrigerator. For the batter, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, salt) and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the wet ingredients (milk and eggs) with the dry mixture, pour it over the cooled apples, and bake. This method ensures your pancakes are just as delicious and fluffy while saving you precious time during hectic mornings!
Original Pancake House Apple Pancake Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the Original Pancake House Apple Pancake?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are a fantastic choice due to their tartness and firmness, which balances the sweetness of the dish beautifully. However, you can also use any other firm, tart apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or even a mix for varied flavors.
How should I store leftover apple pancake once it’s made?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a delightful breakfast or brunch. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or use a toaster oven for a few minutes until warm.
Can I freeze this apple pancake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the cooked apple pancake cool completely, then slice it into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the heating time until warmed through.
What should I do if my pancake batter is too thick?
If you find the batter is too thick, don’t fret! Just add a tablespoon of milk at a time and stir gently until it reaches your desired consistency. It should be pourable but still maintain a bit of thickness. Just be cautious not to overmix, as that can lead to a denser pancake.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Absolutely! You can easily make the Original Pancake House Apple Pancake gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This allows everyone to enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on texture or flavor.
Can I prepare the apple filling in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance. Simply sauté the apple mixture as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to make the pancake, re-sauté the apples briefly to refresh their flavor and warmth before mixing them into the batter.
Heavenly Original Pancake House Apple Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) for a perfectly baked pancake.
- Peel and thinly slice the Granny Smith apples.
- In a skillet, melt the butter, then add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sauté the apples for 5-7 minutes until caramelized and tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, milk, and eggs. Mix until just combined.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the cooled apples across the bottom and pour the batter over them.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Carefully invert the pancake onto a plate and serve warm with powdered sugar.