Delicious Apple Waffles & Pancakes: Your New Favorite Plant-Based Brunch Recipe! This delightful mix, bursting with fresh shredded apples, aromatic cinnamon notes, and a hint of sweet maple syrup, is destined to become the star of your Sunday brunch. Crafted to be entirely plant-based and quick to prepare, you can have a warm, comforting breakfast on the table in under 20 minutes.
*This blog post is proudly sponsored by The Quaker Oats Company. While this post is sponsored, all opinions and the pure joy of creating this recipe are genuinely my own.*
As the crisp air of autumn rolls in, there’s no better time to celebrate the season’s bounty by incorporating fresh, in-season apples into all your culinary creations. Their unparalleled crispness and vibrant flavor truly shine in the early fall months. I especially adore adding them to my breakfast repertoire, transforming a simple meal into a sweet, cozy, and truly special experience. This versatile mix yields unbelievably fluffy, flavorful pancakes or beautifully golden, crispy waffles, promising a heartwarming start to any day. Get ready to indulge!
Why These Apple Waffles and Pancakes Are a Must-Try
Imagine a breakfast that’s not only incredibly delicious but also effortless to prepare, accommodates various dietary needs, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. This apple waffle and pancake mix embodies all of that and more. Here’s why you absolutely need this recipe in your life:
- Effortless & Accessible: Pantry Staples for Everyday Joy. Forget long grocery lists! This recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, using basic pantry staples that are easy to find and often already in your kitchen. Its straightforward nature makes it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunch gatherings.
- Plant-Based Goodness: Nourishing Your Body & Soul. Embracing a plant-based lifestyle has never been more delicious. This recipe is completely free of animal products, making it suitable for vegans and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. It’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
- Waffle or Pancake Perfection: Your Brunch, Your Choice. The beauty of this mix lies in its versatility. Whether you’re craving the airy, fluffy texture of pancakes or the crisp, golden-brown exterior of waffles, this batter delivers outstanding results every time. While I personally lean towards the exquisite crispiness of these apple waffles, the pancakes are equally delightful and tender.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Inclusive & Delicious for All. For those with gluten sensitivities or preferences, this recipe can be easily adapted to be completely gluten-free. Simply ensure all your ingredients are specifically marked gluten-free, particularly when choosing your oats. Look for specially-marked Quaker Gluten Free Old Fashioned Oats to guarantee a safe and delicious gluten-free experience. This ensures everyone can enjoy these fantastic fall treats!
- Quick Preparation: Ready in Under 20 Minutes. Who says amazing brunch needs hours in the kitchen? This recipe is designed for speed, allowing you to whip up a fresh batch of waffles or pancakes in less than 20 minutes, from start to finish.
Essential Ingredients for Your Apple Waffles & Pancakes
Crafting these delectable apple waffles or pancakes requires a harmonious blend of simple yet impactful ingredients. You’ll find the precise measurements conveniently located in the recipe card below, but let’s delve into why each component is vital for achieving breakfast perfection.
- Quaker Old Fashioned Oats: The Heart of Our Flour Base. These oats are the secret to a unique texture and a rich, wholesome flavor that sets this mix apart. By blending them into a fine flour, we create a robust base that’s naturally gluten-free (when certified) and adds a lovely chewiness to the final product. Oats also pack a punch of fiber, making your breakfast more satisfying.
- Fresh Apple: Crisp & Flavorful Seasonal Stars. The star of the show! We’ll be shredding a fresh apple, infusing the batter with natural sweetness and a delicate fruity essence. For optimal flavor and texture, I highly recommend using crisp varieties like Gala or Fuji apples. Their firmness holds up well during cooking, and their balanced sweetness complements the spices beautifully.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: A Symphony of Autumn Flavors. This classic spice combination is nothing short of magical when paired with apples. Cinnamon offers warmth and a sweet aromatic profile, while nutmeg adds a subtle, earthy depth, creating that quintessential cozy fall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A Touch of Aromatic Sweetness. Just a hint of pure vanilla extract elevates all the other flavors, adding a layer of sophisticated sweetness and a comforting aroma to your waffles or pancakes.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: Dairy-Free Creaminess. Almond milk provides the perfect liquid base, contributing to a smooth batter and a tender crumb without adding any dairy. Feel free to use your preferred plant-based milk here, such as soy, oat, or cashew milk, ensuring it’s unsweetened to control the overall sweetness of the recipe.
- Maple Syrup: Natural Sweetness & Richness. A touch of pure maple syrup sweetens the mix naturally, offering a rich, distinctive flavor that pairs flawlessly with apples and spices. It also helps achieve that desirable golden-brown finish.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: For That Irresistible Fluff. These leavening agents are crucial for giving your waffles and pancakes their characteristic rise and airy texture. They work in tandem to create bubbles that result in light and fluffy bites.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): The Secret Ingredient for Lift & Zest. Beyond adding an extra layer of subtle apple flavor, apple cider vinegar plays a vital role in activating the baking soda. This reaction creates more gas bubbles, leading to an even lighter and fluffier end product. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the vinegar in the final dish!
- Olive Oil or Canola Oil: Ensuring Golden Perfection. A small amount of oil is incorporated into the batter to ensure moisture and tenderness. Additionally, it’s used to lightly grease your waffle maker or pancake pan, preventing sticking and contributing to that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Perfect Apple Waffles & Pancakes
Creating these delightful apple waffles or pancakes is surprisingly simple, transforming humble ingredients into a breakfast masterpiece. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfect results every time.
- Step 1: Create Your Oat Flour. Begin by placing the old-fashioned oats in a high-speed blender or a food processor. Process on high for approximately 2 minutes, or until the oats transform into a fine, powdery flour. This step is crucial for the texture of your waffles or pancakes.
- Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the freshly made oat flour along with all the other dry ingredients: baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple spice. Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined and evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor and rise throughout your batter.
- Step 3: Prepare Your Apple. Grate your apple finely. Once shredded, gently squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This prevents your batter from becoming too watery. Don’t discard those flavorful apple bits; set aside any leftovers to use as a beautiful and tasty garnish for your finished waffles or pancakes!
- Step 4: Mix Wet & Dry, Then Cook. In a separate bowl, combine your unsweetened almond milk, apple cider vinegar (ACV), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and oil. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough waffles or pancakes. Finally, fold in the shredded apple. Allow the mixture to rest for about 2 minutes; this gives the ACV time to react with the milk and leavening agents, creating a lighter batter.
- Cooking Pancakes: Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Pour approximately ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles appear on the surface before flipping.
- Cooking Waffles: Preheat your greased waffle maker according to its instructions. Pour about ½ cup of batter into the center of the waffle iron. Close the lid and cook until golden brown and crispy, typically around 5 minutes per waffle, or until your waffle maker indicates it’s done.
Once you’ve experienced the joy of creating and savoring this delicious recipe, I invite you to join me in another impactful Quaker initiative: The Quaker Good Call Challenge!
Quaker strongly believes that life’s circumstances should never act as a barrier to accessing good nutrition. Demonstrating this commitment, they have pledged to donate an impressive $125,000 to Feeding America® this year. This significant contribution aims to directly support families facing food insecurity right across the country, helping to secure a minimum of 1.25 million meals* for those in need. As the official oatmeal sponsor of the NFL, Quaker has also teamed up with beloved fan favorites – legendary players Drew Brees, Jerome Bettis, and Jerry Rice – to spotlight and raise awareness about the pervasive hunger crisis in America. They are actively encouraging all of us to get involved and make a difference by participating in the Quaker Good Call Challenge. It’s an incredibly simple yet powerful way for us to collectively give back and support this vital cause!
Participating is easy: simply gather any spare change you find around your home. Collect it in an empty canister or container – perhaps one that held your delicious Quaker Oats! – and take it to a participating Coinstar kiosk by December 31st. When prompted, select Feeding America to submit your donation. I truly hope you’ll join me in taking this meaningful Challenge and contribute to making a significant difference in the lives of many.
*The monetary equivalent of meals will be donated. Please note that $1 helps provide at least 10 meals, which are secured by Feeding America on behalf of its local member food banks. Quaker has committed a total of $125,000.00 to this initiative. This campaign is valid from October 20th to December 31st, 2021.
Expert Tips for Your Apple Waffles & Pancakes
Absolutely! This versatile mix is perfect for both waffles and pancakes. To make pancakes, simply grease a skillet or pan and heat it over medium heat. Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake. Cook each side for approximately 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbles form on the surface, then flip very carefully. Since this recipe is plant-based, the pancakes can be a bit more delicate than traditional ones, so handle with care.
Don’t let any apple go to waste! Chop up any leftover apple from your preparation and serve it as a fresh, fruity topping for your waffles or pancakes. You can also lightly sauté them with a touch of cinnamon and maple syrup for a warm, caramelized topping. Other great uses include adding them to oatmeal, yogurt, or simply enjoying as a healthy snack.
Yes, these apple waffles are excellent for meal prepping! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them into the microwave for a quick warm-up or use a toaster oven for extra crispiness, bringing them back to their fresh-made glory.
Beyond the classic maple syrup, consider a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of plant-based whipped cream, a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream, toasted pecans or walnuts, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a spoonful of apple compote. Fresh berries also add a lovely contrast in flavor and color.
To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure your waffle maker is fully preheated before adding the batter. Don’t open the lid too early, and cook until the steam subsides, which indicates the waffle is mostly dry and crispy. A light brushing of oil on the waffle plates also helps. For extra crispness, you can briefly pop them in a toaster or oven after cooking.
Explore More Delicious Plant-Based Recipes
If you’re looking for more comforting and healthy plant-based recipes to nourish you from the inside out, be sure to check out these other favorites:
- Pumpkin Spice French Toast
- Gluten Free Granola
If you adored this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Please leave a comment below and share your experience. For even more exciting and feel-good recipes, make sure to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest. Thank you for being a part of this culinary journey!
Apple Waffles
Bailey Rhatigan
10 minutes
5 minutes
4
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Ingredients
- 1½ cup old fashioned oats
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp apple spice (optional, enhances apple flavor)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp canola or coconut oil (for batter, plus more for greasing)
- 4 tbsp shredded apple, excess liquid squeezed out
Instructions
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Place the old-fashioned oats in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend on high for approximately 2 minutes until the oats are transformed into a fine, flour-like consistency.
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In a large mixing bowl, add the oat flour along with the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple spice. Whisk all the dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are well combined.
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Shred your apple and gently squeeze out any excess moisture using a paper towel or clean cloth. Be sure to save any apple leftovers; they make a fantastic garnish!
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In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened almond milk, apple cider vinegar (ACV), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and 1 tsp of oil. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined – avoid overmixing. Fold in the shredded apple. Let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes to allow the milk to react with the vinegar and leavening agents.
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For Pancakes: Heat a greased pan or griddle on medium to high heat. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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For Waffles: Place ½ cup of mix into a greased waffle maker and cook until finished, typically about 5 minutes per waffle, or until golden and crispy according to your waffle maker’s indicator.
Notes
*To ensure this recipe is fully gluten-free, use only certified gluten-free oats and other ingredients. Always check labels.
*When prepared as pancakes, this recipe yields approximately 8 pancakes, which typically provides 4 servings.
*Batter consistency: If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two more of plant-based milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, a spoonful of oat flour can help.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 28g |
Protein: 4g |
Fat: 4g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Sodium: 433mg |
Potassium: 145mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 10IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 222mg |
Iron: 2mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so it should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Bailey Rhatigan
10 minutes
5 minutes
Breakfast, Brunch
American
4
160
20 minute, apple waffles, plant-based, gluten-free, quick breakfast
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