Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Soft, fluffy pancakes made with grated zucchini and cheese, served with a dollop of apple sauce for a fun and healthy breakfast or snack. This american-inspired kid friendly ready in about 25 minutes layers Zucchini, Eggs, All-purpose flour into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 2, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.4 (10 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 American cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Grate the zucchini using a box grater, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel (this prevents soggy pancakes).
  2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together grated zucchini, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering.
  4. Step 4: Pour 1/4 cup of the batter for each pancake onto the skillet, spacing them apart. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Step 5: Serve warm with a dollop of 1/4 cup apple sauce on the side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Cheesy Zucchini Pancakes with Apple Sauce?

American kid friendly like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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