If you’re searching for the ultimate combination of cozy fall flavors and playful presentation, look no further: Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops are about to become your new breakfast obsession. These bite-sized pancake pops are studded with fresh apples and spiked with cinnamon, delivering the comforting taste of a classic pancake in a fun, grab-and-go way. Perfect for brunch spreads, lunchbox treats, or little hands at the breakfast table, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a wow-worthy treat the whole family will be excited to eat. Prepare to fall in love with Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops—one delightful pop at a time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets you up for pancake pop success! Each element plays its own starring role, whether it’s adding fluffiness, depth of flavor, or the sweet, juicy surprise in every bite. These essentials are easy to find but oh-so important for achieving irresistible Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the batter, gives structure and that classic pancake chew.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
- Baking powder: Creates loft and helps each pancake pop puff up perfectly.
- Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk for extra tenderness and a golden hue.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses each bite with warm spice—essential for that cozy flavor.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances every other flavor.
- Buttermilk: Delivers tang and tenderness for a rich, soft crumb.
- Large egg: Binds the batter and gives those pops their satisfying bite.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and makes the texture extra moist.
- Vanilla extract: Lends a wonderful aromatic note that pairs so well with cinnamon and apple.
- Small apple (peeled, cored, and finely diced): The star of the show! Choose a crisp, sweet variety for best results.
- Butter or oil (for greasing): Keeps every pop golden and ensures easy flipping.
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers: Turns pancakes into pops—fun and functional!
- Maple syrup (for serving): The classic finishing touch, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures everything is evenly dispersed, so your Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops have balanced flavor and rise beautifully every time.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended. The combination of buttermilk and egg is what gives these pops their signature fluffiness and creamy crumb.
Step 3: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Don’t worry if you see a few lumps—overmixing makes pancakes tough. The magic is in restraint!
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold in the finely diced apple pieces. This way, you’ll get pockets of juicy, sweet-tart apple in every bite, with just the right balance of fruit to batter in your Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops.
Step 5: Prep the Pan and Cook
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Scoop about a tablespoon of batter for each pop onto the hot surface. Before the batter sets, press a lollipop stick or wooden skewer into each one—it’s the hidden secret to perfectly portable pops.
Step 6: Flip and Finish
When little bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (usually after 1–2 minutes), carefully flip each pancake pop. Cook another 1–2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and the pops are cooked through. Continue with the rest of the batter, adjusting your heat as needed for even browning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the finished pops to a plate—if you’re making a big batch, you can keep them warm in a low oven. Serve your Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops hot with plenty of maple syrup for dipping. Watch as everyone dives right in!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops
Garnishes
Add a little flair by dusting your warm Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops with powdered sugar, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or even a quick drizzle of caramel sauce. For a colorful crunch, try topping with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts—totally optional, but so fun!
Side Dishes
Pair these pancake pops with a fresh fruit salad or tangy Greek yogurt for a complete breakfast spread. If you’re serving brunch guests, try savory breakfast sausages, crispy bacon, or a bowl of berries on the side. These combinations perfectly complement the sweetness of your pops.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or brunch buffets, stand the Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops upright in a mason jar or arrange them bouquet-style on a platter. Provide individual ramekins of maple syrup for dipping, or line up pops on a wooden board with a variety of sauces—think warm honey, fruit preserves, or chocolate. The presentation makes them irresistibly tempting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have a few pops leftover (though that’s rare!), let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days.
Freezing
These Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled pops in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to one month and grab them as a quick breakfast whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave the pops in 15-20 second bursts until warmed through, or pop them in a 325°F oven for about 8 minutes. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes in the oven for best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these without buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you’re out of buttermilk, just add 2 teaspoons of lemon juice or vinegar to 3/4 cup milk and let it sit for a few minutes—it’s a quick and easy substitute that works perfectly here.
Do I have to use sticks?
Nope! While the sticks make them super fun to eat, you can skip them and cook mini pancakes as usual. They’ll still taste just as wonderful and are ideal for tiny hands or brunch platters.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, just be sure to use a good 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The pops may be slightly more delicate, but the recipe adapts well for gluten-free needs.
What kind of apple is best?
Choose a crisp, sweet variety like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape during cooking and give each Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pop that signature burst of fresh apple flavor.
How can I tell when the pops are cooked through?
Once both sides are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (no wet batter), your pops are done! Avoid cooking on too high heat, which can brown the outside before the inside cooks.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops are the sort of joyful breakfast treat that’ll bring everyone running to the table. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and a total delight to both make and eat. However you serve them, don’t be surprised if your friends and family request Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops on repeat!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 pancake pops
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Apple Pancake Pops are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, perfect for a fun and tasty breakfast or snack. With a hint of cinnamon and bursts of apple in every bite, these mini pancake pops will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- Butter or oil for greasing the pan
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Add Apple: Gently fold in the diced apple.
- Cook Pancake Pops: Heat skillet, scoop batter onto pan, insert lollipop stick, cook until golden brown.
- Serve: Transfer to a plate and serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
- Use a melon baller for even-sized pops.
- Great for kids or brunch appetizers.
- Variations: Use pears instead of apples or add mini chocolate chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake pop
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
