Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes

Name: Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh broccoli, finely chopped; 1 medium apple, grated; 1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose); 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based alternative); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Fast & Simple

I absolutely love these Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes! The combination of savory broccoli and sweet apple creates a delightful flavor that is both healthy and satisfying. As a busy person, I appreciate this quick and easy recipe that packs a nutritious punch, making it perfect for breakfast or a light snack. Plus, the crispy texture is a joy in every bite. Join me in enjoying these scrumptious pancakes that are sure to brighten your day!

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:22:29.708Z

When I first made these pancakes, I was skeptically excited. Mixing broccoli and apple felt like an odd pairing, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well they complemented each other. I opted for fresh, finely chopped broccoli to keep the texture intact, ensuring the pancakes wouldn't become mushy. The subtle sweetness from the apple balances the earthy greens perfectly, making each bite solid and unique.

After perfecting the batter, I learned that letting it rest allows the flavors to meld even better. I’ve served these pancakes with a simple yogurt dressing or avocado on the side for an extra twist. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again!

Why You'll Love These Pancakes
Crispy texture with a delightful blend of flavors
Nutrient-packed with broccoli and naturally sweetened with apple
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy mornings

Texture and Flavor Harmony

These Crispy Broccoli Apple Pancakes offer a delightful contrast in texture. The finely chopped broccoli adds a satisfying crunch, while the grated apple introduces a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements. When cooked, the edges become golden brown and crisp, enhancing the overall experience. Keep an eye on the pancakes as they cook; the perfect indicator for flipping is when the edges begin to dry out and the center bubbles slightly, showing that the batter is set.

The combination of whole wheat or all-purpose flour with the vibrant fillings not only contributes to the nutrition but also to the flavor complexity. Whole wheat flour gives a nuttier taste, while all-purpose flour creates a lighter pancake. You can experiment with using oat flour or almond flour for gluten-free options, though you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly since these flours absorb moisture differently.

Customizing Your Pancakes

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can add shredded carrots or zucchini for additional veggies, or try incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the apple's natural sweetness. If you want a kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a delightful surprise. I often toss in some chopped nuts or seeds to add even more texture and nutritional value, so don’t hesitate to explore variations that suit your taste.

For a dairy-free option, substituting milk with almond milk or oat milk works beautifully in this recipe. In place of eggs, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water; just combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and allow it to sit until it thickens, providing a nice binding effect. This way, everyone can enjoy these pancakes, regardless of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh broccoli, finely chopped
1 medium apple, grated
1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
1/2 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious pancakes.

Mix the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the chopped broccoli and grated apple until just combined.

Heat the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Allow it to warm, ensuring the oil covers the base evenly.

Cook the Pancakes

Pour a small ladleful of batter onto the skillet, shaping it into a pancake. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as yogurt, avocado, or a drizzle of honey.

Now that you've made the pancakes, enjoy them fresh and hot!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or dill to the batter, or try switching up the apple for pear or another fruit.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These pancakes are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld. Just give it a good stir before cooking in the morning. If you've made extra pancakes, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or warm them in a skillet until heated through—no need to compromise on that crispy texture.

If you decide to freeze the pancakes, lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for easier storage. I find that they maintain their flavor and texture better this way. When ready to eat, just reheat directly from frozen; it typically takes about 5-7 minutes in a skillet over low heat.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes can be enjoyed in various ways! Serve them warm, topped with a dollop of yogurt for creaminess, sliced avocado for a savory twist, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to enhance the sweetness. Pairing them with scrambled eggs or a side of berries creates a balanced meal that’s great for breakfast or a light snack.

You can also turn these pancakes into a fun brunch option by presenting them as a stack with additional toppings like nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory flavor contrast. This gives your meal an elevated look and makes it feel special, perfect for entertaining friends or family during weekends!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before cooking.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.

→ Can I freeze these pancakes?

Absolutely! Allow the pancakes to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with shredded carrots, spinach, or zucchini. Just ensure they are finely chopped to maintain the pancake texture.