Pouring honey over apple yogurt pancakes on plate

Apple Yogurt Pancakes! Fluffy, Protein-Packed Fall Breakfast

There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm apples and cinnamon on a crisp morning. These Apple Yogurt Pancakes bring that cozy autumn feeling to your kitchen any time of year. Infused with tangy Greek yogurt and shredded fresh apple, they’re impossibly fluffy, naturally sweet, and full of protein. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Bowl of pancake batter with shredded apples being folded in

Apple Yogurt Pancakes Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 pancakes
Calories: 180 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or half whole wheat)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
  • ¼ cup milk (plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 medium apple, peeled and shredded
  • Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, milk, honey, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in shredded apple.
  4. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
  5. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and edges look set, about 2 minutes.
  6. Flip and cook for 1–2 more minutes until golden and cooked through.
  7. Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh apples, or a dollop of yogurt.

Substitutions & Dietary Swaps

  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or oat flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and use almond or oat milk.
  • No Refined Sugar: Use mashed banana instead of honey or syrup for natural sweetness.
  • Extra Protein: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder (reduce flour by 2 tablespoons).

Chef’s Pro Tips

  • Don’t overmix the batter, a few small lumps ensure light and fluffy pancakes.
  • Use finely shredded apple for even texture and natural sweetness.
  • For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar over pancakes as they cook.
  • Keep cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the batch.
  • Top with toasted pecans or a drizzle of almond butter for a decadent twist.
Golden pancakes cooking on a griddle, close-up

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

These Apple Yogurt Pancakes are great for meal prep! Store cooled pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze with parchment between layers for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or skillet over low heat to restore their fresh-from-the-griddle texture.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

  • Pancakes too dense? Batter might be overmixed, stir gently just until combined.
  • Batter too thick? Add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it’s pourable.
  • Raw centers? Lower the heat slightly to cook evenly without burning the exterior.
  • Bland flavor? Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or extra cinnamon for warmth.

Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions

Pair these Apple Yogurt Pancakes with warm maple syrup, vanilla Greek yogurt, or caramelized apples for an indulgent breakfast. They also go wonderfully with nut butters, spiced chai tea, or a cup of rich espresso.

Pairing Recipes From Our Website

FAQs

Can I use flavored yogurt? Yes, vanilla or apple-cinnamon yogurt adds extra flavor and sweetness. What apples work best? Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are great, they stay sweet and tender when cooked. Can I make the batter ahead of time? Yes, refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Stir before cooking. Can I make them in a waffle maker? Absolutely! Just grease the waffle iron and cook until crisp and golden. Are these good for kids? Definitely, they’re lightly sweet, soft, and full of healthy protein and calcium. Can I double the recipe? Yes, these scale beautifully for meal prep or family brunches.

Conclusion

Fluffy, warm, and full of comforting fall flavors, Apple Yogurt Pancakes are the perfect way to start your morning. Packed with protein from Greek yogurt and natural sweetness from apples, they’re proof that wholesome breakfasts can still taste like a treat. Try them this weekend and elevate your breakfast routine with every fluffy, cinnamon-scented bite.

For additional tips on safe dairy storage and breakfast nutrition, visit the USDA Food Safety or FDA Food Guidance.

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