Creating Apple Pie Pancakes is simple when you follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Apples: In a bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk until well blended.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the cinnamon-coated apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
6. Heat the Griddle: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to grease the surface.
7. Cook the Pancakes: Pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake onto the griddle. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
8. Repeat: Continue cooking pancakes until all the batter is used, adding more butter or oil as needed.
9. Serve Warm: Stack the pancakes on a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm while you finish cooking the rest.