Name: Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup buttermilk; 1 egg; 1 tbsp melted butter; 2 apples, peeled and diced; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry); Caramel sauce or powdered sugar for drizzle

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If you’re craving the cozy flavors of apple pie but want a fun and quick breakfast twist, this Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine fluffy, tender pancakes rolled up with a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, all topped off with a luscious caramel drizzle. It’s like apple pie got a breakfast makeover that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or impressing your brunch guests with something truly special. The combination of soft pancakes and gooey apples will have you savoring every bite and coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a tall measuring cup filled with white liquid on the left side and three whole red apples placed on the top right, middle bottom, and bottom left. A white egg is positioned near the top center. In the center left, there is a small bowl with light brown sugar, and in the middle, a small bowl of dark brown syrup. Next to it on the right, a small bowl with a light yellow liquid and a small bowl with brown powder are visible. A metal spoon with a wooden handle lies near the edge of the bowls. The lighting is soft and natural, with a red and white checkered cloth partially visible at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a comforting and delicious dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fluffy texture of the pancakes to the sweet and fragrant apple filling that makes every bite burst with flavor.

1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for fluffy, tender pancakes with just the right chew.
2 tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the cinnamon apple filling.
1 tsp baking powder: Keeps the pancakes light and airy as they cook.
½ tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give extra fluffiness.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, bringing harmony to the ingredients.
¾ cup buttermilk: Provides a tangy richness that keeps pancakes moist and tender.
1 egg: Binds the batter together while adding richness and structure.
1 tbsp melted butter: Adds flavor and helps achieve a golden crust on the pancakes.
2 apples, peeled & diced: The heart of the filling, giving texture and natural sweetness.
1 tbsp butter (for filling): Creates a luscious base for sautéing the apples.
2 tbsp brown sugar: Deep, molasses-like sweetness that brings out the apples’ best.
½ tsp cinnamon: The signature spice for that classic apple pie flavor.
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water: A simple slurry to thicken the apple filling perfectly.

How to Make Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the peeled, diced apples. Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon, letting the apples soften and caramelize gently for about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry, then stir it into the apples to thicken the mixture. Once thickened and glossy, remove from heat and set aside. This perfectly spiced apple filling will be the star inside your pancake rolls.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Pancake Batter

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to build the dry base. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and melted butter for the wet ingredients. Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry, whisking just until smooth. The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape on the skillet but still pour easily.

Step 3: Cook the Pancakes

Heat and grease a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to look set, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown. Aim for pancakes about 5 inches wide—small enough to roll easily but large enough to hold plenty of filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Lay a warm pancake flat and spread a generous spoonful of the cinnamon apple filling over it. Carefully roll the pancake from one edge to the other, sealing in the gooey apples. Repeat until all pancakes are filled and rolled. These rolls are not only delicious but delightful to look at, making breakfast feel like a special occasion.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Optionally drizzle your Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe with warm caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness and festive appeal. If you want an extra crunch, sprinkle crushed pecans on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the melty, warm apple pie goodness bundled perfectly inside pancakes.

How to Serve Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe

Two golden brown rolled pastries with a crispy texture sit side by side on a white plate. Both pastries are drizzled generously with amber-colored syrup that pools slightly on the plate. A swirl of white whipped cream is placed to the left of the pastries, resting on the plate next to more syrup. The plate is sprinkled lightly with white powdered sugar, adding a soft contrast to the warm colors. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The right garnish elevates this dish beautifully. Think caramel drizzle, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream. These simple extras add a touch of elegance and enhance the sweet, comforting flavors without overpowering the star filling.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Pie Pancake Rolls with crispy bacon or a side of Greek yogurt for a nice contrast of savory and creamy textures. Fresh fruit or a small bowl of warm maple syrup also complement the rolls perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch party, arrange the rolls in a spiral on a large platter, garnished with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a rustic look. You can also slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces for a fun appetizer-style breakfast or pack them into individual boxes for an on-the-go treat that still feels indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the Apple Pie Pancake Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them tightly sealed ensures they stay moist and flavorful without drying out, making it easy to enjoy a quick breakfast later.

Freezing

These pancake rolls freeze wonderfully. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy some warm apple pie goodness anytime you want.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the rolls in a microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. If frozen, allow them to thaw slightly before reheating. This way, the apple filling stays delectably warm and the pancakes remain soft and tender.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and provide a nice balance to the sweetness, you can also use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a sweeter, softer filling. Just adjust cooking time slightly if you want softer apples.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will be just as delightful.

Can I prepare the apple filling in advance?

Definitely! The apple filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just warm it gently before spreading on the pancakes for rolling. This can save you time on busy mornings and still deliver that fresh, warm filling experience.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix ¾ cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’ll have a great homemade buttermilk substitute that works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the filling?

Yes, crushed pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and complement the cinnamon apple flavors beautifully. You can stir them into the filling before spreading it on the pancakes or sprinkle on top as garnish for a textural contrast.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting and exciting about this Apple Pie Pancake Rolls Recipe that makes every morning feel like a celebration. Whether you’re starting your weekend with family or whipping up a quick breakfast for yourself, these rolls deliver mouthwatering warmth and flavor in every bite. Give it a try and watch how this simple yet indulgent dish becomes an instant favorite in your kitchen!