Apple Oatmeal Pancakes

### **Instructions**

#### **1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients**
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

#### **2. Combine the Wet Ingredients**
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.

#### **3. Mix Everything Together**
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine. The batter will be thicker than typical pancake batter, thanks to the oats. If you prefer a thinner batter, you can add a little more milk to achieve the desired consistency.

#### **4. Fold in the Apples**
Once the batter is ready, fold in the grated or finely chopped apple. The apple will add moisture, sweetness, and a subtle fruity flavor to each bite.

#### **5. Cook the Pancakes**
Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface. Once hot, ladle about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining batter.

#### **6. Serve and Enjoy**
Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve with your favorite toppings. Consider adding extra slices of fresh apple, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

### **Why You’ll Love Apple Oatmeal Pancakes**

1. **Healthy and Nutritious**: These pancakes are made with oats, which provide fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. The apples add vitamins, antioxidants, and a touch of natural sweetness, making this breakfast both filling and wholesome.

2. **Easily Customizable**: Feel free to switch things up by adding other fruits like berries, bananas, or pears, or try using a different type of flour (such as oat flour or almond flour) to suit your dietary preferences.

3. **Perfect for Meal Prep**: Apple Oatmeal Pancakes store well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat in the microwave or on a skillet for a quick and easy breakfast.

4. **Kid-Friendly**: The mild sweetness of the apples and the fluffiness of the pancakes make them a hit with kids. Plus, the oats help keep them feeling full longer, providing sustained energy throughout the morning.

### **Additional Toppings and Variations**

– **Nuts**: For a bit of crunch and added nutrition, top your pancakes with chopped nuts like walnuts, almonds, or pecans.
– **Greek Yogurt**: For added protein and creaminess, serve your pancakes with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
– **Maple Syrup**: A classic choice for pancakes, a drizzle of maple syrup will complement the apples’ natural sweetness.
– **Cinnamon Sugar**: For a sweet, spiced touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top of the pancakes before serving.

### **Serving Suggestions**

– Pair these Apple Oatmeal Pancakes with a side of scrambled eggs or bacon for a more filling breakfast.
– For an even healthier option, add a smoothie or fresh fruit on the side to boost your vitamin intake.
– These pancakes also make a great addition to a brunch spread, especially when served with a variety of toppings and sides.

### **Conclusion**

Apple Oatmeal Pancakes are a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious, nourishing breakfast that’s both comforting and healthy. With oats, apples, and a hint of cinnamon, this recipe is the perfect way to kickstart your day and keep you feeling full and energized. Try this recipe today for a nutritious breakfast that the whole family will love!