Apple Ring Pancakes

Origins and Inspiration

This recipe is inspired by a popular Polish dish called jabłka w cieście—which translates to “apples in dough.” It also shares similarities with the German and Austrian variation known as Apfelringe im Teig, meaning “apple rings in dough.” Both versions feature apples coated in a batter and fried until golden brown, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior and tender fruit inside.

The use of apple rings in pancakes is not only a creative way to enjoy apples but also an ideal method for incorporating more fruit into your meal. The apples, when cooked, become soft and warm, and their natural sweetness blends perfectly with the fluffy pancake batter.

How to Make Apple Ring Pancakes

While the process of making apple ring pancakes is straightforward, there are a few key steps to ensure your pancakes turn out perfectly every time. The recipe begins by preparing a pancake batter using yogurt, eggs, vanilla, sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder. The yogurt in this recipe serves as a substitute for milk, creating a thicker batter that coats the apple slices beautifully, producing pancakes with a soft and airy texture.

Once the batter is ready, the apples are prepared by peeling and coring them before slicing them into rings. It’s important to ensure that the slices are thin—about 1/3 inch thick—so that they cook evenly and soften within the batter. Thicker slices may not cook through completely, leaving the center raw.

The apple rings are then dipped into the batter and fried in clarified butter or oil in a non-stick frying pan. The key to success here is controlling the heat—too high and the pancakes will burn before cooking through; too low and they will become soggy. The pancakes are flipped when golden on one side and cooked on the other until they are cooked through but not overly soft in the center. They are then dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar and served warm.

Why Use Yogurt in the Batter?

An interesting twist in this recipe is the use of yogurt instead of traditional milk. Yogurt thickens the batter, making it cling perfectly to the apple rings, resulting in pancakes that are fluffier and more tender than those made with milk. The yogurt also adds a slight tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the apples and enhancing the overall flavor. The batter’s consistency also eliminates the need for extra flour, making the pancakes light yet satisfying.

That said, if you prefer to use a more traditional batter, a milk-based option is included in the recipe, allowing for flexibility depending on your preference. Whether you choose yogurt or milk, the pancakes will still deliver a deliciously sweet and satisfying bite.

Apple Varieties and Their Importance

Choosing the right type of apple is essential for this recipe. The apples need to be soft enough to cook quickly and evenly while maintaining their sweetness. Gala apples are a great option, but any sweet variety, such as Fuji or Golden Delicious, can be used. Harder apples like Granny Smith may take longer to soften and can result in a firmer texture, so it’s best to stick with a softer apple for optimal results.

Tips for Perfect Apple Ring Pancakes

1. Proper Flour Measurement: One of the most important tips for making perfect pancakes is measuring your flour correctly. The “spoon and level” method is recommended, where you fluff the flour in the container, spoon it into your measuring cup, and then level it off with a knife. This method ensures that you’re not adding too much flour, which can lead to dense and dry pancakes.

2. Clarified Butter vs. Regular Butter: For frying the pancakes, clarified butter is the preferred option because it has a higher smoke point than regular butter, which means it won’t burn as quickly. If you don’t have clarified butter on hand, a mixture of vegetable oil and butter works as a good substitute. Alternatively, you can use regular butter, but be sure to wipe the pan between batches if the butter begins to brown.

3. Frying Technique: Make sure to fry the apple rings on medium heat. Too high of a temperature may cause the outside to cook too quickly, leaving the center raw. If the batter is too thick in the center (where the hole of the apple is), you can scoop out the excess with a small spoon before placing it in the pan. This ensures even cooking and avoids raw batter.

4. Add a Touch of Cinnamon Sugar: While powdered sugar is the classic topping, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and flavor. This can take your apple ring pancakes to the next level, giving them a delightful autumnal flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apples.

Serving Suggestions

Apple ring pancakes are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with various toppings. A drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn these pancakes into a more indulgent treat. You can also add fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts for a bit of crunch. The options are endless, allowing you to customize the dish based on your personal taste and occasion.

Conclusion

Apple ring pancakes offer a creative and fun way to enjoy pancakes with a fruity twist. By using soft apples like Gala and dipping them in a thick, fluffy pancake batter, these pancakes create a delightful combination of crispy edges and tender fruit centers. Whether enjoyed as a simple breakfast or dressed up with decadent toppings, they are sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings for a warm, comforting treat.

The recipe is versatile, allowing for the use of yogurt or milk in the batter, making it easy to adapt depending on your preference. With the addition of cinnamon sugar or maple syrup, these pancakes can be customized to fit any occasion, from a cozy family breakfast to a special brunch gathering. Apple ring pancakes are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their pancake game while enjoying the sweet, satisfying flavor of apples.