The sweet scent of apples caramelizing in a warm skillet instantly transports me to cozy family brunches, where laughter and delicious food fill the air. Today, I’m excited to share my simple recipe for Russian Pancakes with Apple, or Oladi, that are as comforting as they are delicious. These fluffy treats combine a soft, pillowy interior with slightly crispy edges, making them perfect for any breakfast table or weekend indulgence. Plus, they are incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your family’s tastes, whether that means adding chocolate chips or whipping up a vegan version. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to keep this easy breakfast on repeat. Are you ready to bring a touch of Russian charm to your kitchen?

Why Will You Adore Oladi?

Comforting Tradition: These Russian pancakes with apple offer a nostalgic connection to cherished family gatherings and warm kitchen memories.

Easy and Quick: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious breakfast in no time.

Versatile Fun: Feel free to customize the batter! Try adding chocolate chips, or even create a vegan delight with applesauce for a unique twist.

Irresistible Aroma: Enjoy the delightful scent of caramelizing apples wafting through your home, making everyone eager to join the table.

Perfect for Sharing: They’re a crowd-pleaser, ideal for not just family weekends or gatherings but also as a special treat alongside Cranberry Apple Coleslaw for a complete meal.

Russian Pancakes with Apple Ingredients

• Dive into the delightful world of Russian pancakes with apple with this easy ingredient list!

For the Batter

Kefir – Adds moisture and a unique tanginess; substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with milk for a similar effect.
Water – Thins out the kefir for the ideal batter consistency.
Egg – Provides essential structure and richness to the pancakes.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the main foundation; increase by a few tablespoons for thicker consistency if needed.
Sugar – Sweetens and balances the tartness of the apples for a harmonious flavor.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor, making every bite delightful.
Baking Soda – Helps create that fluffy texture we all crave in pancakes.
Apples – Adds sweetness and moisture; consider using Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best results.
Neutral Oil (Cooking Oil) – Essential for frying; coconut or avocado oil works well to achieve crispy edges.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Russian Pancakes With Apple

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by microwaving the kefir and water together for 30 seconds until just warm. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and sugar until well combined. Add the warmed kefir mixture to the egg mix, and stir gently. Gradually whisk in all-purpose flour until the batter reaches a smooth, dense consistency—similar to sour cream. If the batter appears too thin, add a few extra tablespoons of flour to achieve the right thickness. Finally, fold in the baking soda and the chopped apples, blending gently.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of neutral oil, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly. Allow the oil to warm for about 1-2 minutes until it shimmers gently, indicating it’s ready. The right temperature is vital for making perfect Russian pancakes with apple since too hot will burn, and too cold will lead to soggy pancakes.

Step 3: Fry the Pancakes
Using a heaping tablespoon, drop dollops of the batter onto the heated skillet, making sure to leave some space between each pancake. Cook the Oladi for about 2-3 minutes, or until the edges start to appear set and the bottoms are golden brown. You’ll know it’s time to flip them when small bubbles form on the surface.

Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking
Gently flip the pancakes using a spatula, and let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown on the other side. If needed, add more oil to the skillet before frying the next batch. Repeat this process until all batter is used, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.

Step 5: Serve Warm
Once the pancakes are all cooked and perfectly golden, transfer them to a plate. Serve these delightful Russian pancakes with apple warm, paired with your choice of toppings like a drizzle of honey, a dollop of sour cream, or your favorite jam for an extra treat. The delightful aroma and fluffy texture will be sure to impress everyone at the table.

How to Store and Freeze Russian Pancakes with Apple

Fridge: Store leftover Russian pancakes with apple in an airtight container, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy them warm after reheating!

Freezer: It’s best to avoid freezing these pancakes due to potential texture changes. If you must, freeze without toppings, wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds on medium heat until warm, or pan-fry for a couple of minutes to regain crispiness.

Meal Prep: You can prepare the batter ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and cook them fresh for breakfast!

Russian Pancakes With Apple Variations

Feel free to tailor these delightful pancakes to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegan Option: Replace the egg with ½ mashed banana or ½ cup of applesauce for a delightful vegan twist. The pancakes will still turn out fluffy and sweet!
Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in a handful of dark or milk chocolate chips to the batter for an indulgent touch that both kids and adults will love. Who can resist a decadent treat for breakfast?
Fruit Variety: Explore using diced pears or blueberries instead of apples for a refreshing change. Each fruit brings its unique flavor, making this dish versatile and fun!
Cinnamon Kick: Dust the batter with a teaspoon or two of cinnamon to elevate the flavor and add warmth. It’s a perfect touch for cozy mornings!
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Upgrade Toppings: Top your pancakes with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and drizzle with honey or maple syrup. It transforms the dish into a brunch masterpiece!
Swap Oils: Experiment with different oils for frying. Using coconut oil will add a subtle tropical flavor, while avocado oil keeps things light and tasty.
Spicy Sweetness: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the batter. It creates a beautiful contrast with the sweetness of apples.

These variations ensure your Russian pancakes with apple can cater to any craving. Whether you’re making a special brunch or simply treating yourself on a lazy weekend, each twist brings something unique to the table. If you’re looking for more creative ideas to complement your meal, consider serving these pancakes with a side of Cranberry Apple Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch!

Make Ahead Options

These Russian pancakes with apple are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, which allows the flavors to develop while saving you precious time in the morning. To do this, simply mix all the ingredients together as instructed, then cover and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just give the batter a quick stir and drop it onto a hot skillet as directed. Avoid letting the batter sit for too long after removing it from the fridge to maintain its fluffy texture. Enjoy delicious and hassle-free breakfast moments with these delightful pancakes!

Expert Tips for Making Oladi

Fluffy Texture: Beat the egg until it’s pale and airy before mixing it into the batter to achieve that light, fluffy texture in your Russian pancakes with apple.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to denser pancakes, which isn’t what we want.
Correct Cooking Temperature: Keep the skillet on medium heat rather than high. Too hot and the pancakes will burn; too low, and they’ll stay soggy.
Consistent Batter Thickness: If your batter appears too runny, gradually add a bit more flour (1-2 tablespoons) until it’s thick yet pourable, ensuring a perfect pancake.
Experiment with Flavors: Have fun with your Russian pancakes with apple! Try adding cinnamon or vanilla for an extra layer of flavor, or switch up the fruit based on the season.

What to Serve with Fluffy Oladi (Russian Pancakes with Apple)

The soft, warm goodness of these pancakes pairs beautifully with a variety of delightful sides and accompaniments.

Fresh Berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to balance the sweetness of the pancakes; strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries work wonders.
Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt topped with granola and fruit creates a delectable contrast in texture that complements the fluffy pancakes perfectly.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic sweet touch that enhances the natural sweetness of the pancakes; its warm, rich flavor creates a cozy experience at breakfast.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your oladi and add a touch of indulgence to your meal.
Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkles: A sprinkle of this sweet blend adds warmth and an extra layer of flavor, making every bite an exciting treat.
Natural Applesauce: A homemade applesauce brightens the apple flavor, creating a deliciously moist pairing that enhances the pancake experience.
Crushed Nuts: A sprinkle of walnuts or pecans introduces a delightful crunch and nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pancakes.
Herbal Tea: A calming cup of chamomile or mint tea offsets the richness of the oladi, making for a comforting meal experience.
Smoothies: A refreshing fruit smoothie can balance the pancakes’ warm, fluffy texture with a cool, creamy sip, perfect for starting any day!

Russian Pancakes With Apple Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for Oladi?
Using sweet apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji is perfect as they offer a nice balance of sweetness and moisture. Avoid using tart apples, as they can counteract the flavor of the pancakes.

How should I store leftover Oladi?
Store your Russian pancakes with apple in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They will retain their delicious flavor and can be easily reheated the next day.

Can I freeze Oladi?
While it’s best to avoid freezing due to texture changes, if you absolutely must, wrap them in parchment paper and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. To reheat, microwave for about 30-45 seconds or pan-fry for crispiness.

Why are my pancakes dense?
Dense pancakes can result from overmixing the batter or not using enough flour. Make sure to mix gently and only until combined. If your batter is too thin, gradually add 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour, aiming for a thick but pourable consistency.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg in the batter with either ½ mashed banana or ½ cup of applesauce. This swap retains moisture and helps bind the ingredients, keeping your Russian pancakes with apple delightful and fluffy.

How can I make the pancakes crispier?
To achieve perfectly crispy edges, ensure your skillet is preheated to medium heat before adding the batter, and add enough oil to coat the base of the pan evenly. A splash of water in the pan can create steam, contributing to a crispy exterior.