German Apple Pancake is the ultimate comforting breakfast—soft, custardy, and baked with caramelized apples and cinnamon. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your mornings. Imagine waking up to the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around the table. This recipe is perfect for lazy Sundays, special brunches, or whenever you crave a taste of home. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up this delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This German Apple Pancake
This German Apple Pancake recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy mornings. Second, it’s a delightful way to enjoy apples, especially when they are in season. Third, it serves as a beautiful centerpiece for any brunch table, showcasing its golden, puffy form. Fourth, it can be customized with various toppings to suit your taste, such as maple syrup or powdered sugar. Fifth, it’s a great option for families, as everyone can enjoy a slice without fuss. Lastly, this dish is a traditional German-style apple flapjack that brings a taste of Bavaria to your home, making it a culinary adventure worth embarking on.
Ingredients for German Apple Pancake
Gather these items:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Oven-safe skillet (9–10 inches, cast iron preferred)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make German Apple Pancake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Step 2: Melt butter in the skillet. Add apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for about 5 minutes until apples are soft and lightly caramelized.
- Step 3: In a bowl, whisk eggs, flour, milk, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
- Step 4: Pour batter evenly over the apples in the hot skillet.
- Step 5: Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden.
- Step 6: Carefully invert pancake onto a plate so apples are on top. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.
Pro Tips for the Perfect German Apple Pancake
Keep these in mind:
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the best flavor.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the batter to get that fluffy texture.
- You can make a gluten-free German apple pancake by substituting flour with a gluten-free blend.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Best Ways to Serve German Apple Pancake
Serving suggestions include:
- Top with a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Pair with whipped cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast.
How to Store and Reheat German Apple Pancake
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain its fluffy texture, making it a great option for meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About German Apple Pancake
What’s the secret to perfect German Apple Pancake?
The secret lies in using a hot skillet and ensuring that the batter is poured evenly over the caramelized apples, which creates that beautiful puffed texture.
Can I make German Apple Pancake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just give it a good whisk before pouring it over the apples.
How do I avoid common mistakes with German Apple Pancake?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure your ingredients are well-measured and your oven is preheated. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent deflation.
Variations of German Apple Pancake You Can Try
Explore these variations:
- For a fluffy German apple pancake, use whipped egg whites folded into the batter.
- Add nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Try different fruits like pears or berries for a fruity twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you love pumpkin, you might enjoy our Pumpkin Patch Cookies or our Pumpkin Spice Gooey Cake. For tips on baking, visit King Arthur Baking’s baking tips.
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Comforting German Apple Pancake for Cozy Mornings
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This German Apple Pancake is the ultimate comforting breakfast—soft, custardy, and baked with caramelized apples and cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Oven-safe skillet (9–10 inches, cast iron preferred)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Melt butter in the skillet. Add apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for about 5 minutes until apples are soft and lightly caramelized.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, flour, milk, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour batter evenly over the apples in the hot skillet.
- Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until puffed and golden.
- Carefully invert pancake onto a plate so apples are on top. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
- Perfect for cozy weekend mornings and special brunches.
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
