
Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes: A Fluffy and Flavorful Breakfast Recipe with RiceSelect
Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and what better way to start your morning than with a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes? This recipe elevates the classic pancake by incorporating the comforting flavors of cinnamon and applesauce, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special weekday breakfast. Using RiceSelect products, we’ll add a touch of gourmet flair to this beloved dish. Get ready to indulge in these incredibly delicious Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes!
Why RiceSelect?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why we’re featuring RiceSelect. RiceSelect is known for its high-quality grains and innovative products. While you might not immediately think of rice when making pancakes, their versatile ingredients can add a unique twist and enhance the overall texture and flavor of your baked goods. For this recipe, we will incorporate RiceSelect products that will allow us to explore the full range of RiceSelect’s ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a comprehensive list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes. We’ve broken it down for easy reference:
Dry Ingredients:
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
* 1 ½ cups applesauce (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
* 1 ¼ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
* Maple syrup
* Whipped cream
* Fresh apple slices
* Cinnamon sugar
* Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
* Caramel sauce
Equipment Needed
* Large mixing bowl
* Whisk
* Liquid measuring cup
* Measuring spoons
* Griddle or large skillet
* Spatula
* Ladle or measuring cup for pouring
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part – making the pancakes! Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to ensure your Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes turn out perfectly every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined. This ensures that the baking powder and baking soda are evenly distributed, which is crucial for achieving fluffy pancakes.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The applesauce adds moisture and a natural sweetness, while the melted butter contributes to the rich flavor and tender texture of the pancakes.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay; overmixing can result in tough pancakes. The key is to mix until the flour is just incorporated.
Step 4: Heat the Griddle or Skillet
Preheat your griddle or skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a non-stick surface, you may not need any oil or butter. However, if you’re using a regular griddle or skillet, lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent the pancakes from sticking.
To test if the griddle is hot enough, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water sizzles and evaporates quickly, the griddle is ready. If the water sits and steams, it’s not hot enough.
Step 5: Pour the Batter
Once the griddle is hot, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. Leave enough space between the pancakes so they don’t run into each other.
Step 6: Cook the Pancakes
Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles start to form on the surface. Once the bubbles start to pop and the edges look set, flip the pancakes with a spatula.
Step 7: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Cook the pancakes for another 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until golden brown. Gently press down on the pancakes with the spatula to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 8: Keep Pancakes Warm (Optional)
If you’re making a large batch of pancakes, you can keep them warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). Place the cooked pancakes on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil to prevent them from drying out.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes immediately with your favorite toppings. Drizzle with maple syrup, top with whipped cream, fresh apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry about a few lumps.
* **Hot Griddle:** A hot griddle is essential for achieving golden brown, fluffy pancakes. Test the temperature by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Using fresh baking powder and baking soda ensures that the pancakes rise properly.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a sweeter pancake, you can add more sugar to the batter. However, keep in mind that the applesauce already adds natural sweetness.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings. Berries, chocolate chips, and peanut butter are all great options.
* **Applesauce Consistency:** Ensure your applesauce is smooth for the best batter consistency. If it’s chunky, consider blending it slightly before adding to the recipe.
Variations and Adaptations
Want to customize your Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes? Here are a few variations and adaptations to try:
* **Gluten-Free:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or guar gum for binding.
* **Vegan:** Replace the milk with a plant-based milk alternative (almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk). Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes).
* **Spiced Pancakes:** Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Apple Pie Pancakes:** Add diced apples to the batter for an apple pie-inspired twist.
* **Chocolate Chip Pancakes:** Fold chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent treat.
* **Buttermilk Pancakes:** Substitute milk with buttermilk for a tangier taste and slightly denser texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience:
* **Brunch Platter:** Serve the pancakes alongside scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, and fresh fruit for a complete brunch platter.
* **Pancake Stack:** Stack the pancakes high and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
* **Pancake Tacos:** Fold the pancakes in half and fill them with yogurt, granola, and berries for a fun and healthy breakfast option.
* **Pancake Skewers:** Cut the pancakes into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with fruit and marshmallows for a kid-friendly treat.
* **Savory Pancakes:** Serve the pancakes with a fried egg, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 pancakes per serving, without toppings):
* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 8-10g
* Fat: 12-15g
* Carbohydrates: 55-60g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 15-20g
*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes, you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.
* **Refrigerator:** Store the pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, toaster, or skillet.
* **Freezer:** Freeze the pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the microwave, toaster, or oven.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet applesauce, and fluffy texture makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these pancakes are sure to bring a smile to your face. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and get ready to enjoy a stack of these incredibly delicious Cinnamon Applesauce Pancakes! Don’t forget to get creative with your toppings and variations to make them your own. Happy cooking!