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Apple Sauce Pancakes Recipe

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3.8 from 8 reviews

Fluffy and tender applesauce pancakes made with simple ingredients, perfect for a wholesome breakfast or brunch. These pancakes use unsweetened applesauce to add natural sweetness and moisture while keeping the batter light. The subtle cinnamon and vanilla enhance the flavor, making every bite deliciously comforting.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
  • 1-3 tablespoons water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly to break up any clumps and ensure an even distribution of the leavening agents.
  2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla bean paste to the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently until the batter is just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough pancakes.
  3. Adjust Batter Consistency: Check the thickness of your batter. Since applesauce brands vary in moisture content, if the batter feels too thick, add 1 to 3 tablespoons of water a little at a time, stirring each addition in until you reach a pourable but still thick batter.
  4. Preheat Skillet: Let the batter rest for 5 minutes to hydrate the flour and activate the baking powder. Meanwhile, heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook Pancakes: Pour approximately 1/3 cup of batter onto the hot skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form across the surface and the edges appear dry, about 2 minutes depending on your skillet’s heat. Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown and cooked through, usually another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Repeat Cooking: Continue cooking the remaining batter in the same manner, adjusting heat if necessary to avoid burning.
  7. Serve: Plate the pancakes and serve warm with your choice of maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, or fruit compote for a delicious breakfast treat.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to keep pancakes fluffy.
  • If you prefer sweeter pancakes, add a little more sugar or serve with maple syrup.
  • Resting the batter helps achieve better texture and rise.
  • Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned griddle for easiest pancake flipping.
  • Adjust water quantity carefully to get the perfect batter consistency.
  • These pancakes can be made dairy-free by using cooking spray instead of butter.