Apple Cider Donut Pancakes – 10-Minute Fall Breakfast Recipe

If you’re craving the cozy flavors of fall, there’s nothing quite like a stack of Apple Cider Donut Pancakes. These fluffy, spiced pancakes are packed with the same warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness you love in an apple cider donut, making them a perfect breakfast or dessert option. They’re sweet, comforting, and easy to whip up – a delightful way to welcome the season of apple picking!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Donut Pancakes

Apple Cider Donut Pancakes are the perfect treat for anyone who enjoys the comforting, spiced flavor of apple cider donuts but wants a lighter, fluffier option. These pancakes are quick to prepare, making them a great choice for a weekend breakfast or a fun breakfast-for-dinner option. They combine the richness of apple cider with cinnamon and sugar, giving you that iconic autumn flavor in every bite. Plus, you can top them with maple syrup and cooked apples for an extra indulgence.

Ingredients

These Apple Cider Donut Pancakes are made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that are easy to find and use.

• Whole Wheat or All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the batter, providing structure and texture.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Ensure the pancakes rise and become light and fluffy.
• Eggs: Add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
• Apple Cider: Gives the pancakes their signature apple flavor and moisture.
• Cinnamon: Adds that warm, comforting spice.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds to the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Apples (optional): A fresh apple topping adds sweetness and texture, making these pancakes even more indulgent.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make these pancakes with a twist, here are some alternative ingredients:

• Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar in the batter for a deeper, natural sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative to make these pancakes dairy-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Apple Cider Donut Pancakes is easy, and the results are well worth the effort. Follow these simple steps for a delicious breakfast treat:

1. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, apple cider, and granulated sugar until fully combined.
2. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring only until just combined. Let the batter sit for about 10 minutes to thicken.
4. Cook the Apples: While the batter rests, heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chopped apples with cinnamon and sugar until they soften. Set aside.
5. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar for the coating.
6. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease it lightly with oil or butter. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the surface. Cook until bubbles form around the edges, about 2 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
7. Coat the Pancakes: Once cooked, immediately coat each pancake in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
8. Serve: Serve the pancakes warm with the cooked apples, a powdered sugar glaze, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: It’s important to mix the batter only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
• Keep Pancakes Warm: To keep your pancakes warm while you cook the rest of the batch, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pancake batter the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Apple Cider Donut Pancakes are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with other delicious options to create a full breakfast experience:

• Side Dishes: Serve alongside crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.
• Toppings: For extra indulgence, top your pancakes with whipped cream, additional cinnamon-sugar apples, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Variation: Try adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.

Apple Cider Donut Pancakes: A Seasonal Favorite

These Apple Cider Donut Pancakes are ideal for autumn, thanks to the fresh apple cider and cinnamon flavors. They make a great breakfast for a cozy fall morning, but they’re equally delicious for a breakfast-for-dinner treat. Plus, the seasonal ingredients make this dish a fun way to celebrate apple picking season and enjoy all the cozy flavors of fall.

Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or a casual weekend breakfast, these pancakes are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donut Pancakes offer the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, bringing the comforting flavors of fall right to your breakfast table. With their fluffy texture and cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re sure to become a favorite for cozy mornings or a fun breakfast-for-dinner option. Whether enjoyed with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a handful of warm, spiced apples, these pancakes are an indulgent treat you can enjoy all season long. The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness makes every bite a delicious celebration of autumn.

So, gather your ingredients and make these delightful Apple Cider Donut Pancakes for a breakfast that feels like a fall-inspired hug!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Pineapple Quick Bread: A deliciously moist quick bread that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or a light afternoon snack, this recipe brings tropical flavors and warm spices that pair well with the autumnal vibe of Apple Cider Donut Pancakes.
• Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes: These fluffy pancakes are infused with vanilla and cinnamon, creating a comforting and aromatic breakfast. Similar in style to Apple Cider Donut Pancakes, this recipe adds a simple twist with buttermilk for extra fluffiness and richness.
• Easy Peach Crisp: If you’re craving a sweet treat with a bit of a tangy fruit kick, this peach crisp recipe is the perfect option. The cinnamon and sugar topping provide a similar flavor profile to the apple cider donut, making it a great dessert companion to the pancakes.

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