Step 1: Prepare the Apple
Start by peeling, coring, and grating the apple. Use a grater with large holes so that the grated apple retains its texture when mixed into the batter.
Set the grated apple aside while you prepare the pancake batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined. The sugar will add sweetness to the pancakes, while the salt enhances the flavor.
Add the 150 grams (5.23 oz) of yogurt to the egg mixture. You can use plain yogurt for a more neutral flavor, or choose a flavored yogurt, like vanilla or apple, to complement the apple in the recipe. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
Gradually sift in the 140 grams (4.93 oz) of flour and the 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. The consistency should be thick but pourable.
Step 3: Add the Grated Apple
Gently fold the grated apple into the pancake batter. The apple will add moisture and a sweet, fruity flavor to the pancakes.
Be careful not to overmix the batter at this stage. Folding the apples in gently ensures the batter stays light and fluffy.
Step 4: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet and let it warm up. You can also use butter for frying if you prefer a richer flavor.
Once the skillet is hot, reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent the pancakes from burning before they are cooked through.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes
Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread the batter into a circular shape.
Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set.
Carefully flip the pancakes using a spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Repeat the process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
Step 6: Serve the Pancakes
Once all the pancakes are cooked, transfer them to a plate and serve warm.
These apple yogurt pancakes can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings such as maple syrup, honey, powdered sugar, or a dollop of extra yogurt. You can also add fresh fruit, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
Apples: Use any variety of apple you prefer. Sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp will give a milder flavor, while tart apples like Granny Smith will add a bit of tanginess to the pancakes.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt works well, but you can experiment with flavored yogurts like vanilla or cinnamon to enhance the flavor of the pancakes. If using Greek yogurt, you may need to thin it slightly with a tablespoon of milk or water.
Frying: To ensure the pancakes cook evenly, keep the heat on medium to medium-low. High heat can cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
Extra Flavor: For more flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. These spices pair well with apples and give the pancakes a cozy, warm flavor.
Healthy Variations: You can make the recipe healthier by using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, or by substituting half of the flour with oats. This will add fiber and make the pancakes more filling.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or warm them in a skillet on low heat until heated through.
Freezing: These pancakes freeze well. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave them directly from frozen or warm them in a skillet.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Based on 3 Pancakes):
Calories: 210-250 kcal
Protein: 6-8 g
Fat: 7-10 g
Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
Fiber: 2-3 g
Sugar: 10-12 g
Calcium: 100-120 mg
These apple yogurt pancakes provide a balanced breakfast option with a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The yogurt adds a source of calcium and probiotics, while the apple provides fiber and natural sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of fruit instead of apple? Yes, you can substitute the grated apple with other fruits like pears, bananas, or grated zucchini for a different flavor. Keep in mind that each fruit will slightly alter the texture and taste of the pancakes.
2. Can I make these pancakes gluten-free? Absolutely! You can use gluten-free flour or a combination of almond flour and oat flour. Just be sure to adjust the liquid content as needed since gluten-free flours absorb liquid differently.
3. Can I prepare the batter ahead of time? It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, mix in the wet ingredients and proceed with the recipe.
4. How do I know when the pancakes are ready to flip? Look for bubbles forming on the surface of the pancake, and check that the edges are starting to set. When the edges look dry and the bubbles remain open, it’s time to flip the pancake.
5. Can I use flavored yogurt in the batter? Yes, flavored yogurt can add extra flavor to the pancakes. Just keep in mind that flavored yogurt may be sweeter, so you might want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
Conclusion:
These apple yogurt pancakes are a delightful combination of soft, fluffy texture and fresh, fruity flavor. The addition of yogurt not only enhances the texture but also adds a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the apples. Whether you’re preparing a simple breakfast or treating yourself to a weekend brunch, these pancakes are easy to make and offer a perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings, and don’t be surprised if they become a regular part of your breakfast routine!
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