Apple and cinnamon pancakes

Apple and Cinnamon Pancakes – a delicious and comforting recipe

Who can resist a plate of steaming, fragrant apple and cinnamon pancakes? This simple and quick recipe transforms garden apples into perfect desserts or breakfasts, full of flavor and warmth. Apple pancakes are an excellent choice for cool mornings or a sweet snack throughout the day.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 kg apples (choose fragrant varieties like Golden or Granny Smith)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (you can add more if you like a stronger flavor)
- 250 ml sparkling water (the carbonation will make the pancakes fluffier)
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 packet baking powder (to give them volume)
- 5 tablespoons flour (the amount may vary depending on the juice from the apples)
- Butter for greasing the pan (for a special taste)

Preparing the apples:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples and removing the core with seeds. If you have patience, you can grate them for a finer texture, but you can also use a food processor, as I did, to save time. It is important that the apples are fresh and fragrant to achieve an intense flavor.

2. Caramelizing the apples: Place the chopped apples in a pot over medium heat, add the sugar and cinnamon. Stir occasionally, allowing them to brown and release their juice. This process will enhance the flavor of the apples and create a delicious mixture. When the apples become golden and soft (about 5-10 minutes), remove them from heat and let them cool.

Preparing the batter:

3. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. The salt helps to enhance the flavor.

4. Adding sparkling water: Once the eggs are well mixed, add the sparkling water in which you have dissolved the baking powder. This is the secret that will make your pancakes fluffy and airy.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Incorporate the cooled apples into the egg and water mixture. Then, gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be slightly thicker than regular pancakes, so you can adjust the amount of flour based on how much juice the apples have released.

Cooking the pancakes:

6. Heating the pan: Place a non-stick pan over medium heat and grease it with a bit of butter. It is essential to apply butter for each batch of pancakes to prevent sticking.

7. Frying the pancakes: Use a large spoon to place the batter in the pan. Remember that the batter is thicker, so you cannot spread it by swirling, but you need to level it with the spoon. Let the pancakes brown for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden. At first, it may be more difficult to flip the first pancake, but once you get used to it, it will be a piece of cake. I recommend using a wooden spatula to carefully flip them.

Serving the pancakes:

8. Garnishing the pancakes: Once the pancakes are ready, you can serve them warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey. Add some crushed nuts or hazelnuts for extra crunch. If you are a chocolate fan, feel free to serve them with warm chocolate sauce.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with adding raisins or nuts to the batter for added texture. You can also replace cinnamon with ginger or cardamom for a different flavor.
- Storing the pancakes: If you have leftover pancakes, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.
- Suitable drinks: These pancakes pair perfectly with apple tea or a vanilla latte.

Nutritional benefits:

Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them excellent for digestion and heart health. These pancakes can be a healthy option for breakfast, providing a mix of carbohydrates and proteins, ideal for starting the day with energy.

Frequently asked questions:

- Why don’t the apples caramelize? Make sure to cook them over medium heat to allow them to release their juice without burning.
- Can I use other fruits? Of course! You can replace the apples with bananas, peaches, or even blueberries, adjusting the amounts of sugar and spices to taste.
- Can I make the pancakes gluten-free? You can use gluten-free flour, but you will need to check the consistency of the batter and adjust the amount of liquid.

These apple and cinnamon pancakes are a wonderful way to transform a simple pancake recipe into a sweet treat, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try them and share them with your loved ones. They will surely bring a smile to everyone’s faces!