Apple Cinnamon Pancakes and 10 Irresistible Pancake Recipes

Real apple pieces and a hearty helping of cinnamon turn ordinary pancakes into these simple, yet special Apple Cinnamon Pancakes.

Real apple pieces and a hearty helping of cinnamon turn regular pancakes into these simple, yet special Apple Cinnamon Pancakes.

Some mornings I like to surprise the kids with something a little different for breakfast. These apple cinnamon pancakes are one of those treats—comforting, a touch special, and easy to prepare. They combine the familiar pancake base with real apple and warming cinnamon for a breakfast that feels cozy and seasonal.

I was in the mood for a fruity pancake and considered the banana-and-egg style pancakes, but decided to stick with a classic batter and simply add grated apple and plenty of cinnamon. The grated apple gives the pancakes a pleasant texture and a distinct apple flavor without making the batter heavy. I experimented a bit to get the balance right and settled on this version that keeps the pancakes light while letting the apple shine.

To enhance the apple flavor I used grated apple and apple juice instead of milk. The shredded apple is fine enough that it won’t overwhelm the texture, yet you’ll clearly taste bits of real fruit in every bite. These pancakes come together quickly, making them a great breakfast option when you want something simple but a bit more interesting than plain pancakes.

Coincidentally, today is National Pancake Day — a perfect excuse to try these apple cinnamon pancakes. They’re nearly as fast to make as traditional pancakes and pair beautifully with syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Below is the recipe and a few ideas for other pancakes if you’re in the mood to experiment.

4.86 from 7 ratings

Apple Cinnamon Pancakes

Created by Amber Brady

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 5 mins

Total: 15 mins

Real apple pieces and a hearty helping of cinnamon turn regular pancakes into these simple, yet special Apple Cinnamon Pancakes.

8 pancakes

Ingredients

1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
2 Tbsp packed brown sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
½ cup (47 g) peeled, grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
1 cup (237 ml) apple juice
1 egg
1 Tbsp (14 g) butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

In a large bowl whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Stir in the grated apple, apple juice, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until just combined.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. Using a ¼-cup measure, scoop batter onto the hot surface and gently spread to flatten slightly.
Cook 2–3 minutes, until bubbles form on the top, then flip and cook an additional 1–2 minutes until the other side is golden brown.
Repeat with remaining batter. Makes about 8 pancakes. Serve warm with syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.