Apple Topping for Pancakes, Waffles & Such
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 (Adjust as needed)
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy
This delicious cinnamon-y apple topping is a delightful addition to any breakfast. Perfect for pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, or even a cozy bowl of hot cereal, this warm and flavorful fruit sauce will elevate your brunch game. Inspired by a recipe from the Black Dog Inn B&B in Estes Park, Colorado, this topping combines the sweetness of apples, a hint of spice from cinnamon, and the citrusy zest of orange for an unforgettable taste. For an added twist, try mixing different varieties of apples or adding dried fruit like raisins or cranberries to make this topping your own. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and is a great way to bring a touch of winter warmth to your morning.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples (peeled, cored, and chopped) | 2 large |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Brandy (optional) | 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste) |
| Water or apple juice (for adjusting consistency) | As needed |
| Raisins or dried cranberries (optional) | ¼ cup (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 361.3 kcal |
| Fat Content | 0.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 3.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 92.7 g |
| Fiber | 5.7 g |
| Sugars | 82.4 g |
| Protein | 1.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and chopping your apples into bite-sized pieces. For a smoother topping, you can even chop them into smaller cubes to help them break down more easily during cooking.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, place the chopped apples, cinnamon, sugar, and orange zest. Stir everything together gently to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the cinnamon and sugar.
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Simmer the Mixture: Add about ½ cup of water or apple juice to the pan, enough to create some liquid at the bottom. Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples should soften and release their natural juices, thickening slightly as it cooks. If the mixture becomes too thick or starts to stick to the pan, simply add a bit more water or juice to loosen it up.
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Optional Add-ins: If you want to add a bit of texture, consider tossing in some raisins or dried cranberries. These dried fruits will plump up as they cook, adding a lovely burst of sweetness to your topping. If you do, be sure to add a little extra water or juice to allow them to soften properly.
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Blend (Optional): Once the apples are tender and have softened into a chunky consistency, you can choose to leave them as-is for a rustic topping, or you can blend them for a smoother sauce. To do this, carefully transfer the apple mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender directly in the pan. Blend until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Add the Brandy: If you’re including brandy for a little extra depth of flavor, add it now. Stir the brandy into the apple mixture, and let it simmer for a minute or two to allow the alcohol to cook off, leaving behind a rich, warming flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is ready, reheat the apple topping if necessary. Spoon generously over warm pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. For an indulgent touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. The applesauce will add a flavorful, slightly tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with any breakfast dish.
Tips & Variations:
- Apple Variety: For a more complex flavor, use a mix of different apple varieties. A combination of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Fuji or Gala will provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Make It Sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter topping, you can adjust the sugar level to your liking. You can also swap in maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener.
- Make It Alcohol-Free: For a family-friendly version, simply skip the brandy. The topping will still be wonderfully flavorful.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to add a unique twist to your topping.
This Apple Topping for Pancakes, Waffles & Such is versatile, quick to make, and bursting with seasonal flavor. Whether you’re making breakfast for your family on a chilly winter morning or preparing a brunch spread for friends, this apple topping is sure to impress with its comforting aroma and sweet, spiced taste. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enhance your favorite breakfast foods and add a little extra joy to your day.
