Apple Pie Pancakes – Best Cozy Breakfast Ever

 Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure and fluff to the pancakes.

2 tbsp light brown sugar, packed: Adds subtle caramel notes that echo apple pie filling.

1 tsp baking powder: Gives the pancakes their airy rise.

2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings the signature apple pie warmth.

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Offers depth and complexity to the spice mix.

1/2 tsp ground clove: Adds a punch of aromatic intensity.

1/8 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

1 cup whole milk: Creates a smooth batter and rich mouthfeel.

1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to structure.

1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly: Adds richness and a golden crust.

1 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the dessert-like flavor profile.

1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple): Adds moisture and apple flavor.

Butter or vegetable oil for skillet: Prevents sticking and encourages even browning.

1/2 cup maple syrup (for syrup): Sweet base for the vanilla syrup.

1 tsp vanilla extract or scrapings of 1 vanilla bean (for syrup): Enhances syrup with rich vanilla flavor.

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and salt.

In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Gently fold in the grated apple until evenly distributed.

Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.

Using a 1/4 cup measure, scoop batter onto the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form on the surface.

Flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the skillet as needed between batches.

For the syrup, whisk together warm maple syrup and vanilla extract or vanilla bean scrapings.

Serve pancakes warm with a generous drizzle of vanilla maple syrup.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter; some lumps are okay for fluffier pancakes.

Use freshly grated apple for best texture and moisture.

To keep pancakes warm, place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while finishing the batch.

You can freeze leftover pancakes in a single layer and reheat as needed.