Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes: A Healthy and Delicious Breakfast
Recipe Overview:
These Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes are the perfect way to start your morning with a nutritious, flavorful, and filling meal. Fluffy, light, and naturally sweetened, these pancakes are made without any eggs or dairy, making them suitable for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, and those looking to enjoy a plant-based breakfast. The addition of apple and dairy-free yogurt not only enhances the flavor but also provides extra moisture and a burst of fresh fruit goodness.
These pancakes are easy to make, packed with nutrients, and customizable to your preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, cooking for your family, or treating yourself to a lazy Sunday brunch, these pancakes are sure to impress. Plus, they offer a healthy twist on traditional pancakes, ensuring that you can indulge without guilt.
Ingredients for Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes (Serves 4)
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or any preferred flour like almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (helps to achieve fluffiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for warm, spiced flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce (adds moisture and a natural sweetness)
- 1/2 cup dairy-free plain yogurt (such as coconut, soy, or almond yogurt for a creamy texture)
- 3/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk of your choice, such as oat milk or rice milk)
- 1 medium apple (peeled and grated; or finely chopped for chunks of apple in the pancakes)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for extra sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, adds richness)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (for cooking)
- Additional toppings: Fresh fruit, extra maple syrup, chopped nuts, or a dollop of vegan yogurt.
Nutritional Information (Per serving: 2 pancakes)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g (from apple and maple syrup)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (Cholesterol-free, as it’s a vegan recipe)
- Sodium: 200mg
- Calcium: 150mg (varies depending on the non-dairy yogurt and milk used)
- Iron: 2mg
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes
- Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. Peel and grate the apple to add moisture and flavor to the pancakes. If you prefer larger chunks of apple, you can finely chop it instead. Set aside. For the best results, use a non-dairy yogurt with a smooth, creamy consistency, and make sure your apple sauce is unsweetened to keep the sugar content lower. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. The dry ingredients will give the pancakes their structure and flavor, and the baking powder will help them rise and become fluffy. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple sauce, dairy-free yogurt, almond milk, and maple syrup. Add in the vanilla extract if desired. This mixture will create a smooth batter when combined with the dry ingredients. The combination of yogurt and apple sauce will provide moisture, as well as a slight tang that enhances the flavor of the pancakes. - Grate or Chop the Apple:
Grate or chop your apple and fold it gently into the wet mixture. This will give your pancakes that delightful burst of fresh apple in every bite. If you prefer a less intense apple flavor, you can reduce the amount of grated apple. However, the apple provides natural sweetness and moisture, which are important for keeping the pancakes soft and fluffy. - Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the pancakes dense. It’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy. Let the batter sit for 5 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together and the baking powder to activate. - Heat the Pan:
While the batter is resting, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil to the pan to prevent the pancakes from sticking. Allow the pan to heat up for a couple of minutes before cooking the pancakes. - Cook the Pancakes:
Once the pan is heated, use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour the batter onto the pan for each pancake. Cook the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. You’ll know they are ready to flip when bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to look set. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until golden brown and cooked through. - Keep Warm:
If you are making multiple pancakes, you can keep them warm in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest of the pancakes. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once all the pancakes are cooked, stack them on a plate and serve with your favorite toppings. A drizzle of maple syrup, a handful of fresh berries, or a dollop of extra vegan yogurt can elevate the flavor and presentation of your pancakes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
For the best results, use fresh apples and high-quality non-dairy yogurt. Freshly grated apples provide a natural sweetness and texture that canned apple sauce or apple juice simply can’t match. - Customize the Sweetness:
Adjust the amount of maple syrup or apple sauce based on how sweet you like your pancakes. You can also add a bit of stevia or another sweetener if you’re trying to reduce sugar, but keep in mind that this may affect the flavor and texture. - Make Them Gluten-Free:
If you need to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the texture of the batter and adjust the liquid if necessary since gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture. - Adjust the Consistency of the Batter:
If the batter feels too thick, add an additional tablespoon of almond milk at a time to loosen it up. Pancake batter should be pourable but not too runny, so adjust until you get the right consistency. - Add Spices for Extra Flavor:
Experiment with different spices like ground ginger, cloves, or cardamom to add more complexity to the flavor. A pinch of allspice would also be a great addition for a more autumnal taste. - Make Ahead for Busy Mornings:
If you’re short on time in the mornings, you can make a double batch of these pancakes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave for a quick and easy breakfast.
Why These Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes Are Good for You
- High in Fiber:
The whole wheat flour and grated apple provide a good amount of fiber, which is important for digestion and keeping you full longer. Fiber can help stabilize blood sugar levels and improve gut health, making these pancakes a more nutritious breakfast option. - Rich in Plant-Based Protein:
The non-dairy yogurt provides a source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Adding protein to your breakfast helps you feel satisfied and energized throughout the day. - Low in Saturated Fat:
Unlike traditional pancakes that are often made with butter or milk, these pancakes are low in saturated fat, as they are made with coconut or vegetable oil. This makes them heart-healthier and a better option for those managing cholesterol levels. - Rich in Antioxidants:
Apples are high in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps protect your body from oxidative stress and supports a healthy immune system. The cinnamon and nutmeg also provide antioxidant benefits, contributing to the anti-inflammatory properties of this dish. - Dairy-Free and Egg-Free:
These pancakes are completely plant-based, making them ideal for vegans, individuals with lactose intolerance, or those with egg allergies. The dairy-free yogurt and applesauce provide the necessary moisture and binding properties that eggs would traditionally offer in pancake recipes.
Conclusion:
These Vegan Apple Yogurt Pancakes are a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast option that can be enjoyed by anyone—whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a healthier pancake recipe. With their light and fluffy texture, the sweetness of apples, and the tang of dairy-free yogurt, these pancakes are a delightful way