This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is fluffy, sweet, and perfect for breakfast! With warm, spiced apples baked right in, it’ll make your mornings a little cozier.
Who can resist that lovely combination of cinnamon and apples? I often top mine with a light dusting of powdered sugar. It’s like dessert for breakfast, but we’ll keep that our little secret! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs provide structure and fluffiness to the pancake. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) as a substitute.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can use any milk you have on hand, like almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened version if you’re going dairy-free.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but feel free to substitute with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. Just note that the texture might change slightly.
Apples: I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji work too! If you’re in a pinch, canned apple pie filling can work as a quick substitute.
Cinnamon: The spice adds warm flavor, but you could also try nutmeg or a pumpkin spice blend for a different twist.
How Do I Get My German Pancake to Puff Up Perfectly?
The secret to a puffy German pancake lies in the hot skillet and a quick bake. Start by preheating the oven with the skillet inside to get it really hot, which helps the pancake rise when you pour in the batter. Mix the batter lightly, and pour it over the hot buttered apples.
- Don’t open the oven during baking! This can cause the pancake to deflate.
- Let it cool slightly after removing it from the oven, as it will puff up while baking and settle a little as it cools.
Follow these tips, and you’ll serve up a beautifully fluffy pancake every time! Enjoy your breakfast treat! 🥞🍏
Apple Cinnamon German Pancake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to toss apples)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for apples)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and delicious breakfast or brunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your 10-inch cast iron skillet or any ovenproof pan inside the oven to heat up as well—this helps the pancake puff up nicely!
2. Whisk the Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth. Set this batter aside while you prepare the apples.
3. Prepare the Apples:
In another bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with lemon juice (if you’re using it) and brown sugar until they are well coated. This adds sweetness and helps keep the apples from browning.
4. Assemble in the Skillet:
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add the unsalted butter and swirl it around until it’s melted and coats the bottom and sides of the skillet. Next, arrange the coated apple slices evenly over the melted butter in the skillet.
5. Add the Batter:
Now, pour the prepared batter over the apples in the skillet. Make sure to spread it out evenly so that the apples are well covered.
6. Bake It Up:
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the pancake is puffed up, golden brown around the edges, and set in the center. Try not to open the oven during baking, as this can cause it to deflate.
7. Cool and Dust:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The pancake will deflate slightly as it cools. Finally, dust generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your warm, fluffy Apple Cinnamon German Pancake for a cozy breakfast or brunch! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends! 🍏🥞✨
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or even berries would be delicious substitutes. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you’re using.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have a Cast Iron Skillet?
If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any oven-safe baking dish will work. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as dishes may retain heat differently.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or your favorite dairy-free alternative, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
