Apple Ring Pancakes

A delightful and easy-to-make treat that turns apple slices into crispy, golden rings bathed in a fluffy batter and finished with a sweet cinnamon-sugar kick. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and whimsical – Apple slices transformed into bite-sized pancake rings are both playful and satisfying.
• Naturally sweetened – Cinnamon and sugar add just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the fresh apple flavor.
• Quick and simple – With just a few pantry staples, you can have a batch of these ready in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile and customizable – Swap in gluten-free flour, use plant-based milk, or experiment with toppings like whipped cream or honey.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 apples (choose a cooking variety for the best texture)
• Cinnamon, to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• Oil, for frying

For the Batter

• 250 g flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• Some sugar (for sweetness—adjust to preference)
• 2 eggs
• 200 ml milk

Directions

1. Prepare the apples:
   • Slice the apples into approximately 0.5 cm thick rings. Core each slice carefully to remove the seeds while keeping the shape intact.
2. Make the batter:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and sugar.
   • Add the eggs and milk, stirring until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
3. Fry the apple rings:
   • Heat a generous drizzle of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
   • Dip each apple ring into the batter, ensuring it’s completely coated, then gently place it in the hot pan.
   • Fry until golden on one side, then flip and fry the opposite side until both are crispy and cooked through.
4. Add the cinnamon-sugar topping:
   • While the pancakes are still hot, sprinkle them with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon to taste.
5. Serve and enjoy:
   • Serve immediately—the contrast between the warm, soft apple and crispy batter is irresistible!

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Servings And Timing

• Serves: Approximately 3–4 people, depending on the size and thickness of your apple rings
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10–15 minutes
• Total time: Around 20 minutes

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Variations

• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with added baking powder.
• Dairy-free alternative: Swap regular milk with almond milk or oat milk.
• Extra flavor twists: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the batter for warmth.
• Fancy toppings: Top with maple syrup, honey, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or vegan whipped cream.

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Storage / Reheating

• Best enjoyed fresh: These pancakes are crispest and most flavorful right after frying.
• Short-term storage: Keep leftovers in a single layer at room temperature for up to a day; reheat gently in a pan to revive the crisp.
• Freezing tip: You can freeze cooked rings, then reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer until warm and crispy.

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FAQs

1. What type of apples are best for cooking?

Tart apples like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp hold their shape well and balance the sweetness of the pancake batter.

2. Can I make the batter thicker for a richer coating?

Yes—simply reduce the milk slightly and add a little more flour until you reach a thicker consistency.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can—preheat the oven to 200 °C (400 °F), coat the apple rings in batter, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and bake for 10–12 minutes per side until golden.

4. How do I prevent batter clumping in the apple holes?

Dip the batter-coated apple gently and swipe off excess before frying to maintain clean ring shapes.

5. Can I double or halve the recipe?

Absolutely—just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and cook in batches if needed.

6. What’s the best oil to use for frying?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil work best for even frying without burning.

7. Why are my pancakes soggy instead of crispy?

Ensure your pan is properly heated and add oil as needed. Overcrowding the pan also traps steam, which softens the batter.

8. Can I add bananas or other fruits?

If the slices hold together well when dipped in batter, go for it! Pear slices are a great alternative.

9. How do I keep apple rings from absorbing too much oil?

Maintain medium heat during frying and place on a paper towel–lined tray after frying to drain excess oil.

10. Any serving ideas to elevate them?

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for a dessert-style indulgence.

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Conclusion

These Apple Ring Pancakes are a simple yet enchanting way to enjoy apples—crispy, fluffy, and sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar perfection. Whether for breakfast or dessert, they offer playful presentation and comforting flavors. Let me know if you’d like suggestions on gluten-free variations or creative topping combos!

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