Apple Cheesecake Pancakes

There’s nothing quite like waking up to a warm stack of pancakes that combines the comforting spice of cinnamon with the luscious creaminess of cheesecake filling.

These Apple Cheesecake Pancakes perfectly blend soft applesauce, warm spices, and a rich cream cheese center to deliver a breakfast treat that feels both indulgent and homey.

Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion morning, this recipe never fails to impress.

It’s easy enough for beginners but special enough to wow guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fluffy & flavorful – The perfect balance of airy pancakes with a slight hint of cinnamon warmth.

Creamy cheesecake filling – A rich, tangy surprise inside every bite.

Simple ingredients – Made mostly with pantry staples you likely already have.

Quick prep – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Perfect for special mornings – Great for holidays, birthdays, or weekend treats.

Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

All-purpose flour – Provides a tender but sturdy base for fluffy pancakes.

Chunky applesauce – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.

Cinnamon – Brings warm, fragrant spice that pairs perfectly with apples.

Baking powder – Helps pancakes rise light and fluffy.

Cream cheese – For a rich, smooth cheesecake filling.

Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cream cheese.

Sugar – Sweetens both batter and filling just right.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Don’t overmix the batter — keeping it slightly lumpy ensures tender pancakes.

Use a non-stick griddle or skillet to prevent sticking and get even browning.

Pipe or spoon the cheesecake filling onto the pancakes carefully to get gooey centers.

Serve pancakes immediately for best texture and flavor.

For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.

How to Make Apple Cheesecake Pancakes

Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, cinnamon, baking powder, and sugar until well combined.

Add the chunky applesauce, melted unsalted butter, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients.

Gently stir the mixture until just combined — do not overmix!

It’s okay if the batter has a few lumps.

Step 2: Cook the Pancakes

Heat a non-stick griddle or large skillet over medium heat until hot (around 350°F).

Lightly grease the griddle with butter or oil.

Pour about ½ cup of batter for each pancake onto the hot griddle.

Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set.

Flip carefully and cook for another 2 minutes or until golden brown on both sides.

Transfer cooked pancakes to a warm plate; repeat with remaining batter.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Transfer the cheesecake mixture to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off for easy filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Pancakes

Take one pancake and pipe or spoon a dollop of cheesecake filling on top.

Cover with a second pancake to make a sandwich.

Repeat with all pancakes, stacking them as desired.

For presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm maple syrup.

What to Serve It With

Serve your Apple Cheesecake Pancakes with fresh sliced apples or berries for extra fruitiness.

Maple syrup or honey drizzles enhance the sweet-spicy flavors.

Whipped cream or vanilla yogurt make great creamy accompaniments.

Add a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast.

Variations / Substitutions

Use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan or lactose-free option.

Swap chunky applesauce for mashed bananas or pumpkin puree for a twist.

Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for crunch.

Sprinkle cinnamon chips or mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.

Top with caramel sauce or fruit compote for added indulgence.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to retain texture.

If freezing, do not add cheesecake filling beforehand—freeze plain pancakes and add fresh filling when serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular applesauce instead of chunky?
Yes, but chunky applesauce adds more texture and a better bite.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the dry ingredients ahead but add wet ingredients just before cooking to preserve baking powder’s effectiveness.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?
Use a small spoon or a ziplock bag with a corner cut off for filling pancakes.

Are these pancakes gluten-free?
No, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream cheese and milk alternatives.

How many pancakes does this recipe make?
About 8-10 pancakes depending on size, serving 4-5 people.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cheesecake Pancakes are a comforting breakfast that combines fruity warmth with creamy richness in every bite.

They bring a festive feeling to your table with minimal effort and simple ingredients.

Whether for a lazy weekend brunch or a special celebration, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite.