Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes

Name: Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped broccoli; 1 medium apple, grated; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp honey (optional); Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I love making these Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes because they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make a perfect breakfast or snack. The sweetness of the apple paired with the nutritious broccoli creates a dish that not only tastes amazing but is also packed with vitamins. I've experimented with this recipe countless times, adjusting the ingredients to create a consistency that's perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside. It's a creative way to sneak some greens into my meals, and I know you'll love them too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:58:27.676Z

When I first tried making pancakes with broccoli and apple, I was skeptical. Would they taste good? To my surprise, the balance of the sweet and savory elements worked out perfectly! I found that grating the apple added moisture and sweetness that complemented the slightly bitter notes of the broccoli, creating a unique flavor experience. It’s crucial to ensure all excess moisture is removed from the broccoli to keep pancakes crispy.

The method of sautéing the broccoli briefly before adding it to the batter truly enhances its flavor, making these pancakes an excellent choice for any meal of the day. I often serve them with a dollop of yogurt and some extra apple slices on the side for a refreshing finish. Give them a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A unique twist on traditional pancakes with nutritious ingredients.
The perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy mornings.

The Secret to Crispy Pancakes

To achieve that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy, it’s essential to let the sautéed broccoli cool before mixing it into the batter. This prevents the heat from wilting the raw ingredients when combined, allowing the batter to maintain its texture during cooking. Additionally, ensuring your skillet is adequately preheated is crucial; a hot surface helps seal the pancake edges quickly, creating a beautifully crisp crust.

Using a non-stick skillet reduces the amount of oil needed for frying, making it easier to achieve a crispy finish without excessive grease. I recommend using medium heat for cooking your pancakes to give them enough time to cook through without burning. Look for golden edges and a puffed appearance as signals that your pancakes are ready to be flipped.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of broccoli and apple not only delivers essential vitamins but also brings an interesting flavor balance—sweet from the apple and slightly bitter from the broccoli. Using a tart variety of apple, like Granny Smith, can enhance the dish’s complexity. If you're looking for substitutions, zucchini can replace broccoli for a similar texture, while adding a splash of lemon juice can further brighten the pancakes’ flavor profile.

The role of flour in this recipe is also significant; it acts as the foundation for the pancake structure. For a gluten-free option, you could substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour, but be aware that this may alter the texture slightly. The key is to adjust your liquid content based on your chosen flour to maintain the right batter consistency—smooth but not too runny.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients

1 cup finely chopped broccoli
1 medium apple, grated
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp honey (optional)
Oil for frying

Make sure to mix well to combine all your ingredients.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Prepare the Broccoli

In a skillet, sauté the finely chopped broccoli in a little oil for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated apple, flour, eggs, milk, baking powder, salt, and honey if using. Mix until well combined, then gently fold in the sautéed broccoli.

Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Pour in ladles of the batter and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Repeat until all the batter is used.

Serve

Serve the pancakes warm with yogurt or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy your delicious pancakes!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These Pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a toaster or on a skillet over medium-low heat. This keeps the pancakes crispy on the outside while warming them through without becoming rubbery. If you have leftover batter, it can also be refrigerated for another day, but use it within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pancakes. Cool them completely after cooking and stack them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven—no need to thaw.

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes can be served in various ways to suit your taste. For a savory twist, try topping them with a dollop of plain yogurt and a sprinkle of chili flakes. This contrast between flavors makes each bite exciting. Alternatively, drizzle with maple syrup paired with a handful of walnuts for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Adding toppings like crumbled feta or goat cheese can enhance the savory elements, offering a rich creaminess that balances the sweetness of the apples. Fresh herbs such as chives or parsley can also contrast beautifully and elevate the dish’s appearance. Feel free to experiment with toppings to discover your favorite combination!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, whole wheat flour will work well, though the texture may be denser.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes, you can freeze the pancakes and reheat them in a toaster or microwave.

→ Are these pancakes gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.