Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast) are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, featuring a light and fluffy texture thanks to the yeast. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these pancakes are filled with sweet apples and have crisp edges that make them irresistible. You’ll love how easily they can be prepared ahead of time, making them great for busy mornings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The use of yeast instead of baking powder gives these pancakes a distinct taste that elevates them above standard apple pancakes.
• Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the yeast, these pancakes come out incredibly fluffy and light, offering a delightful bite every time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat or as a delicious dessert option dusted with powdered sugar.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this recipe without any hassle.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the batter the night before and let it rise in the fridge to save time in the morning.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Polish apple pancakes, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan: Ensures easy flipping of pancakes without sticking, helping achieve that perfect golden color.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing the batter quick and effortless, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor in your pancake batter.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Polish apple pancakes (with yeast), gather the following ingredients:

For the Batter

• 20 g fresh yeast or 1 packet/7g active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 1 cup (240g) milk
• 2 cups (250g) flour (spooned and leveled, not scooped)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup (50g) sugar (divided)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 Tbsp vanilla sugar)
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Apples

• 5 small/medium apples (soft variety)

For Cooking

• Frying oil
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

How to Make Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Step 1: Warm the Milk

Heat the milk until it’s pleasantly warm to touch. Aim for a temperature between 100-110°F (38-43°C). If it’s too cold or hot, the yeast won’t activate properly.

Step 2: Bloom the Yeast

In a medium bowl, combine warm milk with yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well and set aside for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice it becomes foamy if the yeast is active.

Step 3: Mix Together Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the milk-yeast mixture with flour, eggs, vanilla extract, remaining sugar (3 tablespoons), cinnamon, and salt. Use an electric mixer to mix for about one minute until well combined.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Place it in a warm area until it doubles in volume—this should take about 45-70 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Ahead If Desired

If you’re making this batter ahead of time, place it in the fridge for overnight rising. It only needs about 9 hours to double in size effectively.

Step 6: Chop Apples

Peel and core your apples, then cut them into very small cubes. This ensures they cook through properly when added to the batter.

Step 7: Combine Apples with Batter

Gently fold the apple cubes into your batter until evenly distributed. Allow it to rest for another 10 minutes.

Step 8: Heat Oil in Pan

In a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, heat about 3 tablespoons of oil until hot enough that you hear sizzling when adding batter.

Step 9: Cook Pancakes

Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake into the pan. Cook each side until puffy and golden brown. Transfer cooked pancakes onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 10: Serve

Dust your pancakes generously with powdered sugar before serving!

Step 11: Enjoy!

Indulge in your homemade Polish apple pancakes!

How to Serve Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Polish apple pancakes are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your pancakes even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Top your pancakes with fresh blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and sweetness.
• Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that complements the fluffy pancakes.

With Sweet Toppings

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the pancakes for a classic sweet touch.
• Honey: A light drizzle of honey adds natural sweetness that pairs well with the apples.

With Creamy Accents

• Sour Cream: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy contrast to the sweet flavors.
• Greek Yogurt: A spoonful of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and protein, making it a wholesome option.

With Nuts or Seeds

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and richness.
• Chia Seeds: For a health boost, add chia seeds as a garnish to enhance both texture and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Pairing side dishes with your Polish apple pancakes can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the pancakes.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach offers a nutritious green side that complements the rich flavors.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and pair well with sweet dishes like pancakes.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and additional vitamins to your meal.
5. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese enhances taste while adding texture; try it alongside your pancakes.
6. Granola Mix: Serve granola on the side for extra crunch and flavor contrast with the soft pancake texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Incorrect yeast temperature: If the milk is too hot or too cold, the yeast won’t activate. Always heat it to between 100-110°F (38-43°C).
• Not proofing the yeast: Skipping the step of blooming fresh or active dry yeast can lead to flat pancakes. Take 10 minutes for the yeast to foam before mixing.
• Using large apple pieces: Cutting apples into big chunks prevents them from cooking properly. Aim for small cubes for even softness.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many pancakes at once can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy edges. Fry in batches for best texture.
• Skipping resting time: Not allowing the batter to rest can affect fluffiness. Let it sit until doubled in size for optimal results.
• Not using enough oil: Using too little frying oil can make the pancakes less crispy. Don’t be afraid to use more oil for that perfect golden edge.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

• Place cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over low heat, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Polish apple pancakes (with yeast).

How do I know when my yeast is active?

You’ll know your yeast is active when it becomes foamy after being mixed with warm milk and sugar. If there’s no foam after 10 minutes, you might need new yeast.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! While soft varieties are preferred, you can use any apples you like. Just ensure they’re peeled and cut into small cubes.

How can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.

What toppings go well with Polish apple pancakes (with yeast)?

These pancakes are delicious topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or even a scoop of yogurt for added creaminess.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the batter the night before and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking.

Final Thoughts

Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) bring warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. Their fluffy texture combined with sweet apple chunks makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding spices like nutmeg or even swapping out apples for pears!