Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. These fluffy treats are leavened with yeast instead of baking powder, resulting in a unique texture and flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet dessert, they feature soft centers filled with tender apple pieces and crispy edges. What’s more? You can prepare the batter the night before for added convenience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fluffy Texture: The yeast in the batter creates a light and airy pancake that’s irresistibly fluffy.
• Rich Flavor: Yeast adds a depth of flavor that elevates these pancakes beyond the ordinary.
• Apple Goodness: Filled with fresh apples, these pancakes are not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the batter the night before to enjoy freshly cooked pancakes in the morning.
• Versatile Serving: Serve them as breakfast, brunch, or dessert – they fit any occasion perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

To make Polish apple pancakes (with yeast), you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your cooking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter quickly, ensuring even mixing.
• Non-stick frying pan: Prevents sticking and promotes even cooking for perfect pancakes.

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 Filling

• 5 small/medium apples (soft variety)

For Cooking

• Frying oil
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

How to Make Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Step 1: Heat the Milk

Heat the milk until it’s pleasantly warm to touch, ideally between 100-110°F (38-43°C). This temperature is crucial for activating the yeast.

Step 2: Bloom the Yeast

In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk with yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir well and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy. If no foam appears, restart with fresh ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Set it in a warm area until it doubles in size—this typically takes about 45 to 70 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Ahead Option

If making ahead, place the dough in the fridge after mixing. Allow approximately nine hours of rising time overnight.

Step 6: Prepare Apples

Peel and core five apples, cutting them into small cubes. Small pieces cook evenly within the pancake batter.

Step 7: Mix Apples In

Stir the apple cubes into your batter until distributed evenly. Let it rest for another ten minutes.

Step 8: Heat Oil in Pan

In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add about three tablespoons of frying oil. Ensure it’s hot enough so that you hear sizzling when adding batter.

Step 9: Cook Pancakes

Spoon about one to two heaped tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan. Cook until both sides are golden brown and puffy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined cooling rack.

Step 10: Dust & Serve

Generously dust your pancakes with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your Polish apple pancakes warm!

How to Serve Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Polish apple pancakes are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or dessert, these pancakes can be dressed up or down to suit your taste.

With Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Bananas – Adds a sweet and creamy texture that complements the fluffy pancakes.
• Berries – Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the pancakes.
• Citrus Segments – Oranges or grapefruits can add a refreshing zing.

Topped with Dairy

• Sour Cream – A classic topping that adds creaminess and tang.
• Greek Yogurt – For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, this topping makes for an indulgent treat.

Drizzled with Sauces

• Maple Syrup – A timeless classic, maple syrup adds sweetness and depth.
• Caramel Sauce – For those who enjoy rich flavors, a drizzle of caramel elevates these pancakes to dessert status.
• Honey – A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with the apple flavor.

How to Perfect Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Making Polish apple pancakes is easy, but a few tips can help you achieve perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Yeast – Fresh yeast provides the best flavor and fluffiness. If using dry yeast, ensure it’s active before mixing.
• Warm Milk – The milk should be warm but not hot; this helps activate the yeast properly for better rising.
• Let Batter Rest – Allowing the batter to rest increases fluffiness. Don’t rush this step!
• Small Apple Cubes – Cut apples into small cubes so they cook evenly within the pancake without being crunchy.
• Hot Oil – Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding batter; this will ensure crispy edges and prevent sogginess.
• Serve Immediately – These pancakes are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet to maintain their crispy texture.

Best Side Dishes for Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

Polish apple pancakes can be paired with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Bacon Strips – Crispy bacon adds savory flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of pancakes.
2. Scrambled Eggs – Soft and fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast alongside pancakes.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity to complement the dish.
4. Oven-Roasted Potatoes – Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a satisfying crunch and heartiness.
5. Cottage Cheese – Creamy cottage cheese brings additional protein and pairs well with sweet toppings.
6. Chia Seed Pudding – For a nutritious boost, serve chia pudding as a light side option filled with fiber and omega-3s.
7. Grilled Sausages – Whether sweet or spicy, sausages add another layer of flavor that goes well with pancakes.
8. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruit can serve as both a side dish and dessert option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your success.

• Using cold milk: Make sure the milk is warm, around 100-110°F (38-43°C), to activate the yeast properly.
• Skipping the proofing step: Always allow the yeast mixture to bloom for about 10 minutes. If it doesn’t foam, start over.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping. This ensures you use the right amount and achieve fluffy pancakes.
• Ignoring resting time: Allow the batter to rest until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving light and airy pancakes.
• Using too little oil: Don’t skimp on oil when frying; it helps create crispy edges. Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

• Place pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Polish Apple Pancakes (with yeast)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per pancake until warmed.
• Stovetop: Warm them in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) fluffier?

To make your pancakes fluffier, ensure that you give the batter enough time to rise, allowing air bubbles to form.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! While soft varieties work best, you can experiment with other apples. Just remember they should be tender after cooking.

What can I serve with Polish apple pancakes (with yeast)?

These pancakes are delicious served with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or even a dollop of sour cream.

Are Polish apple pancakes suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time or store leftovers for quick breakfasts during the week.

Final Thoughts

Polish apple pancakes (with yeast) are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Their fluffy texture and sweet apple flavor make them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize with spices or toppings that suit your taste!