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Brown Butter Apple Pancakes Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

Delight in these Brown Butter Apple Pancakes, featuring tender pancakes infused with warm spices and sweet apples, complemented by rich caramelized apples sautéed in browned butter. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch that combines comforting flavors and textures in every bite.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Caramelized Apples

  • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
  • 3 Tbsp. light brown sugar
  • 1 pinch cinnamon
  • 1 pinch table salt

Pancake Batter

  • 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 Tbsp. light brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp. table salt
  • 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup finely chopped apples (from 1 medium apple)
  • Oil for brushing
  • Maple syrup for serving

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Apples: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 peeled and diced medium apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to brown, about 4 minutes. Add 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a pinch of table salt. Continue cooking until the mixture is golden brown, about 2 more minutes. Add a tablespoon or two of water as needed to achieve a saucier texture. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Prepare Brown Butter: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, stirring frequently until the butter turns golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, the browned butter, 1 cup whole milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon table salt, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg until thoroughly mixed.
  5. Make the Batter: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir once gently to combine. Fold in 1 cup finely chopped apples carefully using a spatula, stirring about 10 times to avoid overmixing. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while heating your cooking surface.
  6. Cook the Pancakes: Heat an electric griddle, nonstick skillet, or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the surface with oil. Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook until golden brown on the bottom and bubbles form and set on top, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown, an additional 2-3 minutes. Repeat with the remaining batter.
  7. Serve: Serve the pancakes warm topped with the caramelized apples and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet, flavorful breakfast treat.

Notes

  • Use firm, crisp apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for best texture in the pancakes and caramelized topping.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
  • If desired, you can prepare the caramelized apples and brown butter ahead of time and refrigerate; rewarm gently before serving.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use almond or oat milk.
  • Adjust maple syrup quantity to taste or substitute with honey if preferred.