Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting and joyful about Polish Apple Pancakes, known lovingly as Racuchy z Jablkami. This Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe delivers soft, fluffy pancakes dotted with sweet, tender apple pieces that bring a nostalgic smile to every bite. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful dessert, these pancakes are easy to make and bring a lovely balance of sweetness and warmth that feels like a warm hug straight from Babcia’s kitchen. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a treasured staple in your cooking repertoire.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential in capturing the authentic taste and texture of the Polish Apple Pancakes. Each element from the tart apples to the smooth vanilla extract plays a crucial role in making these pancakes irresistibly fluffy and flavorful.

• 2 Apples (medium size, small dice or grated): Provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating tender bites in every pancake.
• 1 Large Egg: Binds all the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 3 tbsp White Sugar (Caster Sugar): Adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
• 1 tsp Baking Powder: Makes the pancakes light and fluffy by helping them rise.
• 185 g Plain Flour: The canvas of the batter that holds everything in place.
• 125 ml Milk: Adds moisture and smoothness; adjust slightly if batter feels thick.
• ½ Lemon (Juice Only): Balances the sweetness with a subtle tartness and prevents the apples from browning.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Boosts aroma and gives a delicate warmth to the flavor.
• 3 tbsp Veg Oil (for frying): Ensures the pancakes cook evenly and develop a golden crust.
• 2 tbsp Icing Sugar (for dusting): Adds a finishing touch of sweetness and charm.

How to Make Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by mixing your diced apples with the juice of half a lemon in a bowl. This simple step keeps the apples fresh and bright, preventing them from turning brown while adding a hint of citrusy tang. If your apples are tart enough already, you can skip the lemon juice.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg and Sugar

In a separate bowl, whisk together one large egg and three tablespoons of caster sugar until the mixture becomes pale yellow and slightly fluffy. This takes around two minutes with a hand mixer and creates a lovely lightness that helps your pancakes stay airy.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add one teaspoon of baking powder, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the plain flour into your egg and sugar mixture. Pour in the milk gradually while whisking to form a smooth, lump-free batter. If the batter feels too thick, just add a little more milk, about 20 ml, to achieve the perfect pouring consistency—important for perfectly cooked pancakes.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the prepared apples into the batter to evenly distribute their sweet, juicy goodness. You can use diced apples for a chunkier texture or grate them finely if you prefer your pancakes to have a more subtle, uniform apple taste.

Step 5: Cook Your Pancakes

Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Spoon about two tablespoons of pancake batter into the pan, shaping it slightly with your spatula. Cook each pancake for around two minutes per side or until golden brown. If the pancakes are browning too fast, reduce the heat for an even, gentle cook.

Step 6: Serve Warm with a Dusting of Icing Sugar

Once cooked, transfer your Polish Apple Pancakes to a plate and dust generously with icing sugar for that sweet, classic finish. Now, dive in and enjoy a comforting taste of Polish tradition!

How to Serve Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of icing sugar is classic and simple, but why stop there? Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of sour cream enhances the richness while giving a cool contrast to the warm pancakes. Drizzle some honey or maple syrup if you want extra sweetness, or sprinkle cinnamon for a cozy, aromatic twist.

Side Dishes

Polish Apple Pancakes pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a crisp fruit salad, which add brightness and balance to the flavors. For a heartier option, serve them alongside crispy bacon or sausages, making it a truly balanced and satisfying meal that’s perfect for brunch or a weekend treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your pancakes in a tall tower for an impressive breakfast centerpiece, layering some homemade apple compote or fruit preserves between each layer. Alternatively, serve individual pancakes rolled around a cream cheese filling for a stunning appetizer or dessert twist that is sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe, no worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep them from becoming soggy, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezing

You can freeze these pancakes for longer storage. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to one month without losing their delightful texture.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated pancakes in a toaster or oven to bring back the crisp edges and warm apple flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make pancakes rubbery. A quick re-toast will make them taste freshly made all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! While this Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe shines with apples, you can experiment with pears, blueberries, or even grated zucchini for a unique twist. Just adjust sweetness as needed depending on the fruit’s natural sugar content.

What type of apples work best?

Choose apples that are firm but not too tart, such as Gala, Fuji, or Golden Delicious. These give a nice balance of sweetness and texture, but feel free to tailor to your taste. If they are very sweet, skip the lemon juice to maintain flavor balance.

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You might need to adjust the milk slightly to get the right batter consistency. Almond or coconut flour can add a lovely nutty flavor but modify milk amounts carefully.

Is it possible to prepare the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the batter and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. Just fold in the apples right before frying to keep their texture fresh and prevent excess moisture from releasing into the batter.

How do I ensure my pancakes are fluffy?

Whisk the egg and sugar until pale, use fresh baking powder to help them rise, and don’t over-mix the batter once the flour is added. Cooking on medium heat and turning pancakes gently also helps them puff up beautifully without burning.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing Polish Apple Pancakes (Racuchy z Jablkami) Recipe that connects us to tradition and simple joys. Their fluffy texture paired with tender apples makes every bite a delight that’s perfect anytime you crave a homemade treat. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll find it fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your heart with warmth.

Print