Caramelized Apple Pancakes

Heat a large, seasoned cast iron skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once skillet is hot and butter has melted, add diced apple and sprinkle evenly with sea salt. Toss and stir to coat the apples with melted butter and salt. Cover skillet with a lid for about 2 minutes.

Remove lid and stir. Reduce heat slightly if apples are starting to brown too much. Cover and cook until apples are soft, 2 to 4 minutes. Remove lid and continue to cook, stirring, until apples are lightly browned all over, about 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and mix in coconut sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice. Set aside.

Sift flour into a medium mixing bowl and add sugar, salt, and baking soda. Mix to combine. Whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter in a second bowl. Pour liquid ingredients into flour mixture; stir just enough to incorporate.

Heat a lightly oiled griddle over medium-high heat. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter at a time onto the hot griddle and cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip and cook until browned on the other side, 2 to 3 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve pancakes with caramelized apples.