Oatmeal Apple Pancakes (Weight Watchers Friendly)
A Delicious, Healthy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly made pancakes in the morning. These Oatmeal Apple Pancakes combine wholesome oats, sweet apples, and warm spices to create a breakfast treat that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for those following a Weight Watchers program, this recipe is not only delicious but also balanced, offering a great way to kickstart your day. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast on a chilly morning or want to treat your family to something special, these pancakes are sure to hit the spot!
In this version of oatmeal apple pancakes, you’ll find a light, fluffy texture with a burst of apple flavor, all while keeping the points low and the nutrition high. Using wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and yogurt, these pancakes are designed to keep you full and energized without the heaviness of traditional pancakes.
Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation instructions, and nutrition information, including Weight Watchers points, to help you make these pancakes your new favorite healthy breakfast!
Ingredients for Oatmeal Apple Pancakes
(Serves 4; Makes 8 pancakes)
- 1 medium apple (any variety – sweet or tart)
- 1 cup rolled oats (quick oats are preferred for better texture, use gluten-free oats if necessary)
- 1/2 cup nonfat plain yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt if preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey, if you prefer)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk you prefer)
Weight Watchers Points
(Points per serving calculated based on WW PersonalPoints system)
- Total servings: 4 (2 pancakes per serving)
- 1 serving (2 pancakes) = 3 WW Points (PersonalPoints).
- If using honey, the points may increase slightly, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
Nutritional Information per Serving (2 pancakes)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 7g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
This makes these oatmeal apple pancakes a well-rounded, low-calorie breakfast option that will keep you satisfied while staying within your WW daily points.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep Your Ingredients
Begin by peeling and coring the apple. You can choose any type of apple you like—sweet red apples, tart Granny Smith, or even a mix of both. Grate the apple using a box grater or food processor to create small, fine apple shreds. Set the apple aside. - Blend the Oats
Place the oats into a blender or food processor. Pulse for about 30 seconds until they form a fine oat flour-like texture. This will give your pancakes a smooth, light consistency that mimics traditional pancake flour. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your blended oats with the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are well-mixed and evenly distributed. - Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, nonfat yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and almond milk. Make sure all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated before moving on. - Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix—just until the mixture comes together. The batter will be slightly thicker than traditional pancake batter. - Fold in the Grated Apples
Add the grated apples to the pancake batter and gently fold them in using a spatula. The apple pieces should be evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving each pancake a bit of fruit goodness. - Heat the Pan
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with a small amount of cooking spray or a teaspoon of oil. Once hot, it’s time to cook the pancakes! - Cook the Pancakes
Using a 1/4-cup measuring spoon, pour the pancake batter onto the heated skillet. Cook each pancake for about 2-3 minutes on the first side. You’ll know it’s time to flip when small bubbles begin to form on the surface of the pancake. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and the pancakes are cooked through. - Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pancakes from the skillet and keep warm while you cook the remaining pancakes. Serve the pancakes warm, with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Apple Pancakes
- Consistency of the Batter: If the batter is too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it up. If it’s too runny, add a spoonful of oats and let it sit for a minute or two to thicken.
- Apple Variety: The type of apple you choose will influence the flavor of your pancakes. For a sweeter pancake, go with a Red Delicious or Fuji apple. For a tart twist, try a Granny Smith apple.
- Oat Texture: For a smooth, fluffy pancake, blend the oats finely. If you like a bit more texture, pulse them for less time. Just be sure that you’re using quick oats if you’re blending them, as they create a better consistency.
- Vegan Option: If you follow a vegan lifestyle, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal + 3 tbsp water), and use a plant-based yogurt. Make sure to choose a dairy-free milk alternative as well.
- Extra Flavors: Experiment with different spices! Nutmeg or allspice can add a delightful twist to your pancakes, or even a touch of ginger for extra warmth.
- Batch Cooking: These pancakes are great for meal prep! You can double or triple the recipe, cook the pancakes, and then freeze them for easy breakfasts during the week. Just reheat them in the microwave or toaster.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Weight Watchers
If you’re following the Weight Watchers program, these Oatmeal Apple Pancakes are a fantastic option because they’re high in fiber and protein, which can help keep you full longer. The oats provide soluble fiber, which aids in digestion and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. The addition of apples not only adds natural sweetness but also provides a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants.
Additionally, the use of nonfat yogurt in the batter helps to boost the protein content of the pancakes without adding too many extra calories or fat. This makes them a great choice for anyone looking to manage their weight while still enjoying a satisfying and delicious breakfast. With only 3 WW Points per serving, you can indulge without guilt.
Final Thoughts on Oatmeal Apple Pancakes
These oatmeal apple pancakes are more than just a breakfast staple—they’re a nutritious, versatile option that can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers, gluten-free, or simply looking to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite breakfast, this recipe has something for everyone. The combination of apples, oats, and yogurt ensures that each bite is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits.
By swapping out traditional pancake ingredients for more wholesome options like oats and yogurt, you’re making a breakfast that can help you stay on track with your health goals without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, making them a great choice for busy mornings or when you want to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at home.
So next time you’re in the mood for pancakes, skip the heavy, sugary versions and whip up these light, fluffy oatmeal apple pancakes instead. With minimal WW points and maximum flavor, they’re a great way to start your day right!