When you think of breakfast or brunch, you think of pancakes. How about having Apple Pecan Pancakes with Apple Spice Syrup instead. This will wake you up, kick start the brain and get the day off to a proper start. The pecan nuts add a superb texture and flavour that blends with the cinnamon to create a superb flavour. This syrup is easy to make and can be used with so many bases. I often serve this with seasonal fruits and a spoonful of cream to make it even more delicious. Why not surprise your family and friends and cook this at the weekend.
For me, brunch is much more than simply having breakfast a little later. It is an opportunity to slow down, enjoy something delicious and turn an ordinary morning into a little occasion. These Apple Pecan Pancakes tick every box, especially when you have a lovely weekend ahead and nowhere particular to rush off to.
What makes these pancakes so enjoyable is the combination of flavours and textures. The apple brings a gentle sweetness and a little freshness, while the pecans add a wonderful crunch. Meanwhile, the cinnamon gives everything that familiar warmth we associate with homemade apple pie. However, there is something rather special about enjoying those flavours in a stack of freshly cooked pancakes.
Of course, the apple spice syrup deserves plenty of attention too. I absolutely love a good topping, and this one is a real winner. Its sweet apple flavour blends beautifully with the warming spices. Furthermore, it soaks into the pancakes, making every mouthful wonderfully moist and delicious. I honestly think ordinary maple syrup would struggle to compete!
When I prepare brunch for family or friends, presentation always gets a little attention. After all, we eat with our eyes first! I like to stack the pancakes slightly off-centre, allowing the syrup to run naturally down the sides. A few extra chopped pecans and some thin apple slices make a lovely finishing touch. Additionally, a spoonful of whipped cream adds a little indulgence without overpowering the flavours.
Another reason I enjoy this dish is its versatility. You can serve it as a relaxed weekend breakfast, a special birthday brunch or even as part of a larger brunch spread. For example, fresh berries, yoghurt and crispy bacon all make interesting accompaniments. The contrast between sweet and savoury flavours can be surprisingly good.
If you are entertaining, you can also prepare the apple spice syrup ahead of time. This makes life considerably easier when everyone gathers around the table. Consequently, you can concentrate on cooking the pancakes and enjoying the company rather than spending the whole morning in the kitchen.
I always think the best brunch dishes bring people together. There is something wonderfully welcoming about a warm stack of pancakes placed in the middle of the table. Everyone can help themselves, add their favourite toppings and enjoy another cup of coffee.
So, if you fancy making your next brunch a little more exciting, give these Apple Pecan Pancakes a try. They offer comfort, sweetness and a lovely combination of textures. Quite honestly, I cannot think of many better ways to start a lazy weekend!
Apple Pecan Pancakes with Apple Spice Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 250 ml
- 2 tbsp brown sugar 30 ml
- 2 tsp baking powder 10 ml
- 1/2 tsp Salt 2 ml
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 2 ml
- 3/4 cup milk 180 ml, plus 2 tbs
- 2 large eggs yolks
- 2 large eggs whites stiffly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 5 ml
- 1/2 cup apple 125 ml, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans 125 ml, chopped
Instructions
- Combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a mixing bowl.1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp Salt, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Stir in the milk, egg yolks, and vanilla.3/4 cup milk, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fold in the apple, pecans, and beaten egg whites.1/2 cup apple, 1/2 cup pecans, 2 large eggs
- Using a 1/4 cup (60 ml) measure, drop onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or skillet.
- Turn when bubbles form on the surface and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve with apple spice syrup – See separate recipe for the syrup.