
Healthy Oatmeal Apple Pancakes are my answer to mornings when I want something warm and hearty without sacrificing nutrition. These are made with whole oats and fresh apple, making them both wholesome and incredibly flavorful. I reach for this recipe when I want to feel full and energized without any sugar crash later on.
I first made these for my son’s back-to-school breakfast and now they’ve become our Saturday staple.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: provide fiber and help keep you full
- Grated apple: adds moisture and natural sweetness
- Eggs: bind everything and add protein
- Greek yogurt: makes the batter creamy and fluffy
- Cinnamon: gives a cozy flavor
- Baking powder and baking soda: create rise and softness
- Vanilla extract: adds warm aroma
- A pinch of salt: enhances all the flavors
- Oil or butter: is used for cooking and helps crisp the outside

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make Oat Flour:
- Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor and pulse until they resemble flour. This forms the wholesome base of the pancakes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the oat flour baking powder baking soda cinnamon and salt to evenly distribute everything.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl whisk together eggs Greek yogurt and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
- Add Apple:
- Stir the grated apple into the wet mixture making sure it is evenly distributed. This adds both flavor and moisture.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix just until combined. Let the batter sit for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add oil or butter. Scoop about one quarter cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake.
- Flip and Finish:
- Cook the pancakes for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Serve Warm:
- Serve with toppings like maple syrup sautéed apples or yogurt and berries for a balanced breakfast.
You Must Know
I love how the Greek yogurt adds a light tang and makes them super fluffy. My daughter calls these the apple pie pancakes and asks for them by name.
Storage Tips
Store cooked pancakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in a toaster or oven for the best texture. Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based butter for a lactose-free version. Swap apple with mashed banana grated zucchini or pear depending on the season. You can also stir in nut butter or a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content.
Serving Suggestions
Top with sautéed cinnamon apples and a dollop of yogurt. Drizzle almond butter or sunflower butter for richness. Sprinkle granola or chopped nuts for texture and crunch.

Cultural or Historical Context
Pancakes have long been a comfort food in many cultures. This recipe transforms the traditional version into a health-forward option using whole ingredients. The use of oats and apples echoes rural European breakfasts where grains and orchard fruit were pantry staples.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?
Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.
- → What type of apple works best?
Firm, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up well and add great flavor and moisture.
- → Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, you can mix the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours. Stir well before cooking.
- → How do I store leftover pancakes?
Cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
You can substitute with dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond-based varieties for a similar texture and flavor.
- → Are these pancakes suitable for kids?
Yes, the gentle sweetness and soft texture make them kid-friendly, plus they're packed with nourishing ingredients.