Pancakes with mascarpone and caramelized apples

Mascarpone Pancakes with Caramelized Apples: A Fall Delight

When the chill of autumn sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a serving of pancakes with mascarpone and caramelized apples. This simple yet incredibly delicious recipe combines the soft texture of pancakes with the creamy richness of mascarpone and the sweet, warm flavor of caramelized apples, creating the perfect dessert for cool days. Plus, it's easy to make, making it an ideal choice for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the pancakes:
- 5 large eggs
- 7 heaping tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 500 ml of milk
- a pinch of salt
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 20 ml oil for greasing the pan

For the mascarpone cream:
- 250 g mascarpone cheese
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of raisins (preferably soaked in warm water)

For the caramelized apples:
- 2 large apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of butter
- 200 ml of water

For serving:
- 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar

The Story Behind the Recipe

Pancakes are a popular dessert in many cultures, with a long history dating back to ancient times. Whether served plain, filled, or topped with various sauces, pancakes bring joy and comfort. In this recipe, we've chosen to combine them with mascarpone, an Italian ingredient that adds a touch of elegance and creaminess. The caramelized apples, with their warm and sweet aroma, perfectly complement this dessert, evoking memories of crisp autumn days.

Preparing the Pancakes

1. Start by making the pancake batter. In a large bowl, whisk the 5 eggs well. Add the flour, sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing, gradually adding the milk until you achieve a smooth and fluid batter. It's important to avoid lumps, so you can use a whisk or a hand mixer. Let the batter rest for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten in the flour to develop, making the pancakes fluffier.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the mascarpone cream. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the mascarpone cheese and mix well. Then, fold in the soaked raisins gently to avoid crushing them. This mixture will add a touch of sweetness and an interesting texture to the pancakes.

3. Now it’s time to cook the pancakes! Heat a skillet over medium heat and grease it with a little oil. Use a small ladle to pour the batter into the skillet, gently swirling it to cover the bottom evenly. When the edges of the pancake start to lift from the pan, use a spatula to flip it over. Let it brown on the other side, then transfer the pancake to a flat plate. Repeat the process until you finish the batter. You should yield about 10-12 pancakes, depending on the size of your skillet.

Preparing the Caramelized Apples

1. While you prepare the pancakes, you can make the caramelized apples. Wash the apples and cut them into cubes, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients. In a skillet, add the butter and the chopped apples. Sauté them over medium heat until they start to release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well to combine.

2. Once the apples are caramelized, pour in the water and let them simmer over low heat for another 5-10 minutes, until they soften and the liquid has reduced. You’ll have a delicious mixture with an irresistible aroma.

Assembling the Dessert

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking.

2. Take a pancake, fill it with a generous layer of mascarpone cream, carefully rolling it up and tucking the ends in to prevent the filling from spilling out. Place the rolled pancakes in the prepared dish, side by side.

3. Pour the caramelized apples over the pancakes, ensuring that each serving will benefit from that delicious flavor.

4. Bake the dish for 15 minutes, until the pancakes are slightly golden and the mascarpone cream is warmed through.

Serving Mascarpone Pancakes with Caramelized Apples

Once the dessert is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. This dessert is best served warm, but it’s also delicious at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

For an even more delightful experience, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce could also enhance the flavor. Pair the pancakes with a fragrant tea or mulled wine to create a special atmosphere.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but also nutritional benefits. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, while mascarpone provides a good source of calcium and protein. Additionally, pancakes are a source of carbohydrates, offering energy and satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, although the texture of the pancakes may vary.

How can I make the pancakes easier to digest?
You can replace some of the milk with plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk.

What is the best way to store leftover pancakes?
Pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or skillet before serving.

Personalized Variation

If you want to add more flavor, you can mix in some chopped nuts into the mascarpone cream or substitute the apples with caramelized pears. This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to your preferences.

In conclusion, mascarpone pancakes with caramelized apples are a dessert that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring warmth and comfort to your autumn days. Whether you prepare them for family or friends, this treat will surely be appreciated. Enjoy!