Apple Pancakes with Lemon Spiced Butter

🥞🍋 Apple Pancakes with Lemon Spiced Butter 🍋🥞

What is it?
Apple Pancakes with Lemon Spiced Butter is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the warmth of spiced butter and the comforting fluffiness of pancakes. It’s a perfect blend of fruity, zesty, and aromatic goodness.

History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely evolved from traditional pancake recipes with various regional influences. Pancakes themselves have been enjoyed for centuries across different cultures, and the addition of apples and spiced butter is a creative twist that adds extra flavor and texture.

Components:

1. Pancake Batter:

   • 1 cup all-purpose flour
   • 2 tablespoons sugar
   • 1 teaspoon baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1/4 teaspoon salt
   • 1 cup buttermilk
   • 1 large egg
   • 2 tablespoons melted butter
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1-2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

2. Lemon Spiced Butter:

   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
   • Zest of 1 lemon
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
   • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Lemon Spiced Butter:

   • In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, powdered sugar, and lemon juice.
   • Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
   • Shape the mixture into a log using plastic wrap, parchment paper, or a silicone mold.
   • Place the butter log in the refrigerator to firm up while you make the pancakes.

2. Prepare the Pancake Batter:

   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
   • Gently fold in the thinly sliced apples into the batter.

3. Cook the Pancakes:

   • Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
   • Pour 1/4 cup portions of the pancake batter onto the hot griddle.
   • Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.
   • Repeat with the remaining batter.

4. Serve:

   • Take the chilled Lemon Spiced Butter from the refrigerator and slice it into rounds.
   • Place a pat of the butter on top of each stack of apple pancakes.
   • Drizzle with maple syrup or honey if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Time Needed:
Preparation and cooking time for this dish can vary, but on average, it takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare Apple Pancakes with Lemon Spiced Butter from start to finish. This includes the time for making the pancake batter, cooking the pancakes, and preparing the spiced butter. It’s a wonderful weekend treat that’s worth the effort! 🍴😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Pancakes with Lemon Spiced Butter:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, excluding additional toppings like syrup):

• Calories: Around 300-350 calories per serving (1-2 pancakes with spiced butter)
• Protein: About 5-7 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Around 2-3 grams
• Sugar: About 10-15 grams (mainly from apples and added sugar)
• Fat: Approximately 16-20 grams
• Saturated Fat: About 9-12 grams
• Cholesterol: Around 75-100 mg
• Sodium: Approximately 300-400 mg
• Vitamin C: Provides a good amount due to the lemon and apples
• Calcium: Around 100-150 mg
• Iron: Approximately 1-2 mg

Health Information:

• Protein: While not particularly high in protein, these pancakes can be part of a balanced meal when combined with other protein sources like yogurt, nuts, or a side of scrambled eggs.
• Carbohydrates: Pancakes are a source of carbohydrates, providing energy. The inclusion of apples adds natural sugars and fiber.
• Fiber: The small amount of dietary fiber in these pancakes comes from the apples. While it’s not a significant source, fiber is important for digestive health.
• Fat: The butter in the recipe contributes to the fat content. While butter does contain saturated fat, the lemon spiced butter is used as a topping, so you can control the amount you use.
• Cholesterol: The cholesterol content is primarily from the egg and butter. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using a lower-cholesterol butter substitute and egg alternatives.
• Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the amount of salt added. It’s important to be mindful of salt intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.
• Vitamins and Minerals: These pancakes provide vitamin C from the lemon and apples, and some calcium and iron.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. Additionally, the overall healthiness of this dish depends on serving size, toppings, and your individual dietary needs and preferences. Enjoying it in moderation can be a delicious treat as part of a balanced diet.