Apple Pie Pancakes with Vanilla Maple Syrup

There’s something undeniably comforting about waking up to the warm aroma of apples, cinnamon, and butter drifting through the kitchen. These Apple Pie Pancakes with Vanilla Maple Syrup bring all the cozy flavors of a classic apple pie into a fluffy, golden pancake that feels perfect for slow weekend mornings, holiday breakfasts, or even a special breakfast-for-dinner night with the family. They’re soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the edges, and finished with a sweet, aromatic vanilla maple syrup that makes every bite feel like a treat.

If you love homemade pancakes that feel indulgent yet easy enough for busy mornings, this recipe is going to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes like apple pie, but in quick and easy pancake form
• Perfect for cozy weekends, family breakfasts, or brunch gatherings
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy to customize

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour) – Provides the structure for fluffy, tender pancakes
• Sugar (brown sugar recommended) – Adds sweetness and enhances the apple-pie flavor
• Baking powder – Helps the pancakes rise and stay light
• Ground cinnamon – Brings warm, classic apple pie spice
• Nutmeg (optional) – Adds depth and a subtle cozy aroma
• Salt – Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor
• Milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Creates a smooth, pourable batter
• Large egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness
• Melted butter or coconut oil – Adds moisture and a buttery finish
• Apples, peeled and diced – The star ingredient for texture and natural sweetness
• Lemon juice – Keeps apples fresh and bright
• Maple syrup – Naturally sweet and perfect for warming
• Vanilla extract – Adds a soft, fragrant note to the syrup (use alcohol-free vanilla if preferred)

How to Make Apple Pie Pancakes

Prepare the Apples

Peel and dice the apples into small, even pieces. Toss them gently with lemon juice to prevent browning and to add a touch of brightness that balances the sweetness.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined to avoid uneven seasoning.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Let the butter cool slightly before mixing so it doesn’t scramble the egg.

Combine and Fold

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can make pancakes dense. Fold in the diced apples evenly throughout the batter.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set, then flip and cook until golden brown on the other side.

Prepare the Vanilla Maple Syrup

Warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from heat once warm and fragrant.

Serve and Enjoy

Stack the pancakes high, drizzle generously with vanilla maple syrup, and serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Success

• Dice the apples small so they cook evenly inside the pancakes
• Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning before the center cooks
• Don’t press pancakes while cooking, as this can make them dense
• If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Non-stick skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Small saucepan (for syrup)

Recipe Variations

• Whole Wheat Apple Pancakes: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier, more filling pancake
• Spiced Apple Pancakes: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth
• Apple Cinnamon Oat Pancakes: Replace ¼ cup of flour with finely ground oats
• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter

Serving Suggestions

Serve these apple pie pancakes with fresh apple slices, chopped walnuts or pecans, or a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt. They also pair beautifully with scrambled eggs or crispy hash browns for a complete breakfast spread.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to cook the pancakes fresh, but you can prep the dry ingredients in advance to save time.

What apples work best for this recipe?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and balance sweetness.

Can I freeze these pancakes?
Yes. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before storing in a freezer bag.

How do I reheat pancakes?
Reheat in a toaster, skillet, or microwave until warmed through.

Can I skip the vanilla syrup?
Absolutely. Plain maple syrup still tastes delicious, or you can add a pinch of cinnamon instead.

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Final Thoughts

These Apple Pie Pancakes with Vanilla Maple Syrup are the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something special. Warm, fluffy, and filled with comforting spice, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying slowly with a cup of coffee. Give them a try, make them your own with fun variations, and don’t forget to share your experience if you love them. Happy cooking and cozy breakfasts ahead