Caramel Apple Pancake dippers (added protein, grain free)
These pancake dippers feature tart green apple rings dipped in a protein-packed pancake batter, grilled to perfection, and then coated with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet finish. Pair them with a creamy caramel sauce for the ultimate treat!
If you’re a fan of fall flavors but want something with a healthy twist, these Protein Caramel Apple Pancake Dippers are the perfect solution! Combining tart green apples with a protein-packed pancake batter and a delicious cinnamon-sugar coating, these dippers make a fun and indulgent breakfast or snack. And the best part? You get to dip them in a creamy, homemade caramel sauce that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!
These dippers are great for kids and adults alike, and they come together quickly with simple, natural ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, making a fun after-school snack, or just treating yourself to a cozy fall treat, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love These Protein Caramel Apple Pancake Dippers
• Packed with Protein: Using grass-fed whey protein (or your favorite vegan alternative) in the pancake batter gives these dippers a nice protein boost, making them a great option for a balanced breakfast or post-workout snack.
• Naturally Sweetened: With the use of maple syrup and coconut sugar, these dippers avoid the need for refined sugars while still delivering a rich, sweet flavor.
• Caramel Sauce Upgrade: Traditional caramel can be loaded with sugar and butter, but this version made with cashew butter, maple syrup, and coconut milk offers a healthier and dairy-free alternative that’s just as satisfying.
• Fun for Dipping: Who doesn’t love a good dipping treat? These pancake dippers are made to be dunked in caramel sauce, offering an interactive and delicious experience.
Ingredients Breakdown
• Green Apples: The tartness of green apples provides the perfect balance to the sweet pancake batter and caramel sauce. When cooked, they soften just enough while maintaining a bit of their refreshing crispness.
• Almond Flour & Tapioca Starch: These two flours create a grain-free base for the pancake batter. The almond flour adds a nutty richness, while the tapioca starch gives the pancakes that light, fluffy texture.
• Protein Powder: Adding whey protein (or a vegan alternative) not only makes these pancakes more filling, but also provides essential nutrients to fuel your day. This makes the dippers more than just a treat—they can easily serve as a hearty breakfast.
• Maple Syrup: Naturally sweet and full of flavor, maple syrup adds a depth of sweetness to both the pancake batter and the caramel sauce without using refined sugar.
• Coconut Oil: Used both in the batter and to help the cinnamon-sugar coating stick, coconut oil gives the dippers a subtle richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Cinnamon & Sugar: No fall treat would be complete without the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. This duo is sprinkled on the apple rings after grilling for an extra hit of sweetness.
• Caramel Sauce: This dairy-free, refined sugar-free caramel sauce is made with cashew butter, maple syrup, and coconut milk. It’s thick, creamy, and perfect for dipping!
Caramel apple pancake dippers
Ingredients
Pancake Batter:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup tapioca starch
- 1/3 cup grass-fed whey protein, or substitute with vegan protein powder
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup, adjust to taste
- 1/4 cup refined coconut oil, melted
- 1/3 cup dairy-free milk, almond, oat, or coconut
- 1 –2 large green apples, sliced into rings (cores removed)
Topping:
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar, maple sugar, or raw cane sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, for dipping
Caramel Sauce:
- 1/4 cup cashew butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup full-fat coconut milk
Instructions
Prepare the Apples:
- Slice the green apples into 1/4-inch rings and remove the cores. Set aside.
Make the Pancake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca starch, grass-fed whey protein, and baking powder.
- Add the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and dairy-free milk. Stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free, adjusting the milk to achieve a pancake batter consistency.
Cook the Pancake-Dipped Apple Rings:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Dip each apple ring into the pancake batter, coating evenly.
- Place the batter-coated apple rings onto the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and your choice of sugar (coconut, maple, or raw cane).
Coat the Grilled Apple Pancake Rings:
- After grilling the pancake-dipped apple rings, dip each one lightly into the melted coconut oil, then immediately press both sides into the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cashew butter, maple syrup, and coconut milk.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Serve:
- Serve the cinnamon-sugar-coated apple pancake dippers warm with the caramel sauce on the side for dipping
