Apple Oat Pancakes
on Sep 27, 2023, Updated Sep 02, 2025
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These apple oat pancakes are a wholesome, toddler-approved fall breakfast made with just a handful of simple ingredients. Sweetened naturally with fresh apples and blended oats, they’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for little hands. Plus, they come together quickly and freeze beautifully, making them a great option for busy mornings.
Why Apple Oat Pancakes are Great for Toddlers
- Nutrient-Rich: Rolled oats provide a good source of fiber, while apples offer vitamins and natural sweetness, making these pancakes a balanced and nutritious breakfast.
- Easy to Customize: You can personalize these pancakes by adding your toddler’s favorite toppings, such as a drizzle of peanut butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dollop of yogurt.
- Quick and Simple: This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy mornings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 apple (peeling optional), sliced into cubes
- 3/4 cups milk (use your choice of dairy or dairy-free milk)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Apple Oat Pancakes for Toddlers
- Prepare the Apples: Start by preparing the apple. You can choose to peel it if you prefer, or leave it. Slice the apple into small cubes.
- Blend the Oats: In a blender or food processor, add the rolled oats and blend until you achieve a fine powder-like consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the apple cubes and the rest of the ingredients into the blender and blend until completely smooth!
- Cook the Pancakes: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray. Pour a ladleful of pancake batter onto the skillet to form small pancakes. Use the back of the ladle to spread the batter into a round shape.
- Cook on Both Sides: Cook the pancakes for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them gently using a spatula.
- Serve: Once done, transfer the pancakes to a plate.
Substitutions
Oats → Use quick oats instead of rolled oats if that’s what you have on hand. Avoid steel-cut oats since they won’t blend smoothly.
Apple → Any variety works, but sweeter apples like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp give the best natural sweetness. Pears can also be used for a twist.
Milk → Use any milk you prefer — dairy or non-dairy options like almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work well.
Flavors → Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or apple pie spice for extra fall flavor.
Egg-Free → Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) to make these vegan-friendly.
Storing your Apple Oat Pancakes
If you have any leftover Apple Oat Pancakes, here are some storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Place the pancakes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Freezing: To enjoy them later, store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
Common Questions
Can I make these apple oat pancakes dairy-free?
- Absolutely! Simply use your favorite plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk to make them completely dairy-free.
Can I turn these toddler apple pancakes into waffles?
- Yes — you can pour the batter into a greased waffle maker instead of a pan. Cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions for a crispier version.
Do I need to peel the apple?
- Peeling is optional! If you want a smoother texture for toddlers, peel the apple before cubing it. For extra fiber and texture, leave the skin on.
What toppings go well with these fall pancakes?
Great toddler-friendly toppings include:
- A drizzle of peanut butter or almond butter
- Yogurt and fresh fruit
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
- Warm applesauce or a few extra apple slices
More Fall-Inspired Recipes for Kids
Pumpkin Pancakes – These fluffy pumpkin pancakes are a cozy fall breakfast made with simple ingredients and warm spices. Naturally sweetened and soft, they’re perfect for toddlers and the whole family. Freeze leftovers for an easy, make-ahead breakfast!
Apple Oat Bars – These hearty apple oat bars are made with rolled oats and fresh apples for a naturally sweet, filling breakfast. They’re soft enough for toddlers but tasty enough for the whole family to enjoy.
Healthy Pumpkin Muffins – These healthy pumpkin muffins are moist, lightly sweetened, and packed with fall flavor. Made with real pumpkin and wholesome ingredients, they’re great for toddler snacks or breakfast on busy mornings.
Easy Healthier Cinnamon Rolls – These easy healthier cinnamon rolls are a lighter take on a classic breakfast treat. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a gentle glaze, they’re made with better-for-you ingredients so you can feel good about serving them to toddlers and kids.
Pumpkin Oat Bars – These chewy pumpkin oat bars are a wholesome snack or quick breakfast option for toddlers and kids. Made with real pumpkin, oats, and warm spices, they’re naturally sweetened and freezer-friendly too.
These healthy apple oat pancakes are my kids’ favorite fall breakfast! I hope you love this healthy breakfast recipe as much as my family does! If you do, tag me @reallittlemeals so I can see your yummy creations!
Apple Oat Pancakes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cubed apple
- 3/4 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Core and slice an apple into cubes. You can peel the apple first if you want, but you don't have to!
- Add oats to a blender or food processor and blend until they are fine flour. Add the apple cubes and the rest of the ingredients into the blender and blend until smooth.
- Grease a pan, and heat it on the stove over medium heat. Scoop a spoonful of batter onto the pan. Cook about 2 minutes on one side, and then flip and cook the other side until they are golden and cooked through.
- Let cool and serve with syrup, peanut butter, applesauce, or your favorite topping!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
