Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, combining the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with the wholesome goodness of oats. They’re fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

• For the Pancake Batter:
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Apple Cinnamon Topping:
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Cinnamon Topping

1. Cook the Apples:
   • In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
   • If you like, add a splash of lemon juice to the apples to keep them from browning and enhance their flavor.
   • Set aside and keep warm.

2. Prepare the Pancake Batter

1. Blend the Oats:
   • Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and blend until they form a coarse flour. This will give the pancakes a nice texture.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the oat flour, all-purpose flour, sugar (or maple syrup), baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

3. Cook the Pancakes

1. Preheat the Griddle or Skillet:
   • Heat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pancakes:
   • Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Use the back of the spoon to spread it into a round shape.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Keep Warm:
   • Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and keep warm in a low oven (200°F or 90°C) while you cook the remaining pancakes.

4. Serve

1. Top the Pancakes:
   • Stack the pancakes on plates and spoon the warm apple cinnamon topping over them.
2. Optional Garnishes:
   • Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of additional cinnamon, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
3. Enjoy:
   • Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes warm for a delicious start to your day!

Tips for Success

• Oat Flour: For a smoother batter, you can use store-bought oat flour instead of blending your own oats.
• Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Even Cooking: Make sure your griddle or skillet is preheated to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes are a wonderful combination of fluffy pancakes with a delightful apple topping. They’re perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch and are sure to please everyone at the table!