This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is like a fluffy hug on a plate! It’s filled with sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and fluffy egg goodness, making it a perfect breakfast treat.
Making this pancake is a breeze—just whip up the batter, cook it in the oven, and watch it puff up. I love to enjoy it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of syrup. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for a fluffy pancake. If you’re looking for a plant-based substitute, try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. Just remember, it might change the texture a bit.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives the best texture, but you could swap it for whole wheat flour for a heartier pancake or a gluten-free blend for gluten-free needs.
Apples: I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. If you want a sweeter pancake, consider Fuji or Gala apples instead.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm flavor. If you don’t have it, nutmeg can add a nice twist, or use a pre-made apple pie spice blend.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but you can use coconut oil or vegan butter if you’re avoiding dairy. Just ensure it’s melted for easy mixing.
How Do I Ensure My Pancake Fluffs Up Perfectly?
Achieving that nice puffiness in your German pancake is all about temperature and timing. Here are some tips:
- Preheat the oven and skillet well; a hot skillet is key to cooking the pancake evenly.
- Don’t skip whisking the batter until it’s frothy. This incorporates air, helping it rise.
- Avoid opening the oven door while baking. This lets heat escape and can cause the pancake to fall.
- Serve immediately after baking since it will deflate a bit as it cools.
Apple Cinnamon German Pancake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Total time is about 35 minutes, but it’s so worth the wait for a delicious, fluffy breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats up, place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan inside the oven. This will get it nice and hot, which helps the pancake puff up perfectly.
2. Mix Up the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, add the eggs, flour, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and smooth with no lumps. This should take just a minute or two! Set the batter aside for a moment.
3. Safely Prepare the Skillet:
Carefully take the hot skillet out of the oven (watch your hands!). Add the butter and swirl it around until it melts and coats the bottom of the skillet evenly. This will help prevent sticking and adds delicious flavor!
4. Arrange the Apples:
Now, layer the thinly sliced apples evenly across the bottom of the skillet. The apples will caramelize in the oven and make this pancake even tastier!
5. Pour in the Batter:
Pour your prepared batter over the apples, making sure it covers them nicely. It’s okay if the apples peek through a bit; they’ll mix together as it cooks!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Return the skillet to the hot oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Watch it as it bakes—this is where the magic happens! It will puff up and turn golden brown on the edges.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. The pancake will deflate a little as it cools, but that’s normal. Dust it with powdered sugar for a lovely finish before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy! You can also add syrup, whipped cream, or sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top if you like.
Enjoy this warm, fluffy Apple Cinnamon German Pancake fresh from the oven! It’s perfect for breakfast or any time you crave something sweet and comforting.
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just make sure to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
Can I Make This Pancake in Advance?
While this pancake is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the batter ahead of time. Just refrigerate it for a few hours and give it a good whisk before pouring it into the skillet.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Pancake?
It’s delicious served warm, dusted with powdered sugar. Consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added flavor and texture!