Pecan-Apple Pancakes

We have a bumper crop of fresh pecans this year courtesy of a neighboring tree. Our neighbors, Dan and Jim, enjoy them but only harvest a few and always appreciate the pecan pie that Grenville bakes for them.

Here’s a breakfast recipe I tried this weekend. Pecans were our nut of choice (did I mention we have a LOT this year?) but this recipe will work with walnuts as well. When I asked Grenville’s opinion, he told me this one was “a keeper.”

Apple Pecan Pancakes

• 1 C flour
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¾ C (plus 2 tsp) milk
• 2 eggs (separated)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ C apples (peeled, finely chopped)  - save rest and slice
• ½ C plus ¼ C pecans (chopped)

1. In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
2. Stir in milk, egg yolks and vanilla.
   (Note – if batter is too thick, add a bit more milk.)
3. Add apples and ½ cup of pecans.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then fold into batter.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto a hot, greased griddle or skillet.
6. Turn when bubbles begin to form and the edges are golden.
7. Cook until the second side is golden.

Serve topped with remaining ¼ cup of pecans, apple slices, syrup.