Apple Bear Claw Pancakes

Don't be intimidated by the ferocious name. These are fluffy delicious pancakes happen to look like big bear claws... in a cute yummy way. They might be a bit more work for the beginner cook, but they are well worth it.

Apple Prep:
- 1 Granny smith apple, peeled, cored and cut into 1/4 inch slices and then cut those slices in half so you have a thin apple piece about 1 inch long
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons margarine for cooking apples

1. In a skillet over medium high heat, melt the margarine.
2. Add the apples, cinnamon, and the 3 tbsp sugar.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the apples are softened slightly.
4. Remove the pan from the heat set aside to cool.

Batter Prep:
- 1 1/4 Cup all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 Egg or for vegan 2 Tbsp silken tofu (whip with beater untill smooth)
- 1 cup milk of your choice, I perfer Silk regular
- 2 tablespoons melted margarine for batter

1. Mix flour with baking powder, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl combine egg, milk, and margarine.
3. Add to dry ingredients, stirring just until combined; do not over mix. Batter will be lumpy.
4. Gently fold in apple mixture.
5. Heat a lightly greased griddle or skillet over medium-low heat. Griddle is ready when a few drops of water bubble and skitter rapidly around.
6. For each pancake, pour approx. 1/4 cup batter onto hot griddle.
7. Apples will create a chunky pancake. Poke batter with spoon to create bearclaw shape, its fun!
8. Cook pancakes until surface is covered with bubbles and appear dry around the edges. Turn and cook other side until golden brown.

It can be hard to get the middle to cook through, the trick is to cook over a lower temp for a longer time. Good luck! If successfull these are a hit and sweet enough that you dont need syrup. =)