Apple Raisin Pecan Pancakes with Apple Syrup

In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. In a smaller bowl, combine eggs, buttermilk, shortening, applesauce, and vanilla. Pour into the dry ingredients just until combined. Add grated apple, raisins, and pecans. Stir into the batter. Using a half-cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto a hot griddle. Cook until bubbles start to form on top of the pancake and the bottom is golden brown. Using a spatula, flip over and cook until golden brown. Remove from the griddle and keep warm.

In a sauce pan, combine juice, sugar, and cornstarch and whisk until smooth. Add a cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil until thickened, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the cinnamon stick. Spoon the syrup over the warm pancakes and top with additional pecans, if desired.