If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic pancakes, Apple Ring Pancakes are the perfect treat. These pancakes combine the natural sweetness and slight tartness of tender apple rings with a fluffy, golden pancake batter, creating a breakfast or brunch that’s both visually appealing and delicious. With a crisp edge and a soft, tender center, these pancakes are ideal for family mornings, weekend brunches, or even a special dessert. Serve them with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for an irresistible start to the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines fresh apples with fluffy pancakes for a unique flavor and texture
- Quick and easy to make — ready in about 25 minutes
- Fun and interactive — perfect for cooking with kids
- Light, slightly sweet, and naturally fruity
- Works as breakfast, brunch, or even a dessert
Ingredients
- Plain yogurt (1 cup) – Adds moisture and tang, keeping pancakes soft
- Eggs (2 large) – Provides structure and richness to the batter
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Brings sweet, aromatic flavor
- Sugar (2 tbsp) – Adds gentle sweetness to the batter
- Melted butter (1 tbsp) – Keeps pancakes tender and adds richness
- Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the flavor
- Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp) – Makes pancakes light and fluffy
- Flour (1 cup, spooned and leveled) – Forms the structure of the pancake
- Apples (4 small, cored and sliced into rings) – The star of the dish, adds natural sweetness and shape
- Clarified butter or vegetable oil – For frying, gives a golden, crisp edge
How to Make Apple Ring Pancakes
Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder until smooth. Gradually stir in the flour until just combined — avoid overmixing for tender pancakes.
Prepare the Apple Rings
Core and slice the apples into 1/3-inch thick rings. Make sure each ring stays intact for the best presentation and even cooking.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat clarified butter or vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Dip each apple ring into the pancake batter, ensuring it’s fully coated, then carefully place it in the hot pan.
Cook until golden brown on one side, then flip carefully and cook through until both sides are evenly golden and the batter is cooked.
Serve
Serve the apple ring pancakes warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, or extra fresh fruit.
Tips for Success
- Use soft apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for tenderness
- Make sure the oil or butter is hot enough for a crisp edge but not too hot to burn
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary
- Flip carefully with a spatula to keep the apple rings intact
Equipment Needed
- Non-stick frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Recipe Variations
- Cinnamon Apple Rings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for extra warmth
- Caramel Apple Pancakes: Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of syrup
- Berry Apple Rings: Top with fresh blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a complete breakfast experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry first to prevent extra moisture in the batter.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to one day. Give it a quick whisk before using.
How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking?
Use a well-heated non-stick pan and enough butter or oil for frying.
Can I make smaller or larger apple rings?
Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time slightly for thicker or thinner rings.
Apple Ring Pancakes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Ring Pancakes are a fun twist on classic pancakes, combining tender apple rings with fluffy golden batter. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, topped with syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup flour (spooned and leveled)
- 4 small soft apples (like Gala), cored and sliced into rings
- Clarified butter or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
- Gradually stir in flour until just combined.
- Core and slice apples into 1/3-inch thick rings.
- Heat clarified butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Dip each apple ring into pancake batter and place in the hot pan.
- Cook until golden brown on one side, flip carefully, and cook through.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or other desired toppings.
Notes
- Use any soft apples suitable for frying.
- For even cooking, ensure pan is properly heated before adding apple rings.
- Customize toppings as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
Apple Ring Pancakes are a playful, delicious way to enjoy a classic breakfast with a twist. Crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and naturally sweet from apples, they’re perfect for family mornings, brunch gatherings, or a sweet treat anytime. Try them with your favorite toppings and enjoy the fun, fruity flavors in every bite.
