This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is fluffy and tasty! With soft apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Plus, it’s quick to whip up!
Honestly, watching it puff up in the oven is half the fun! I like to serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. You can’t go wrong with a bit of sweetness! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are a must for this pancake. They help create that wonderful fluffiness. If you’re vegan, you can substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for similar results.
Apples: I prefer Honeycrisp for their sweetness and crisp texture, but Granny Smith makes a great tart addition. Feel free to mix apples or use any kind you have on hand. Pears also work nicely!
Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal here, but whole wheat flour can give it a nuttier flavor. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free all-purpose blend; it should work well.
Butter: Unsalted butter is commonly used for flavor control. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter can be easily substituted.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Puffed Pancake?
Getting that beautiful puff is all about preparation and timing. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven with the skillet inside. This hot pan helps the pancake rise quickly as it bakes.
- Swirl melted butter in the hot skillet evenly. This creates a lovely crisp edge and prevents sticking.
- Don’t open the oven door while it’s baking! This can cause the pancake to sink. Let it bake undisturbed for 20-25 minutes.
Remember, the pancake will deflate a bit when it cools, so serve it right away for the best presentation!
Apple Cinnamon German Pancake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pancake:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pancake takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a cozy breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan inside so it can warm up.
2. Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are frothy. Next, add the flour, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, thin batter. It should be well combined, so no lumps remain!
3. Add the Butter:
Using oven mitts, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add the unsalted butter and swirl it around to melt and coat the bottom and sides of the pan. This step will give the pancake a lovely texture and prevent sticking.
4. Arrange the Apples:
Now, take your sliced apples and arrange them evenly over the melted butter in the skillet. Spread them out nicely so that every slice gets some of that buttery goodness.
5. Pour the Batter:
Gently pour the prepared batter over the apples evenly. Now, you’re ready to bake!
6. Bake the Pancake:
Return the skillet to the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Watch it closely—it will puff up beautifully and turn golden brown around the edges!
7. Cool and Dust:
When the baking time is up, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Keep in mind that the pancake will deflate a little as it cools. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finishing touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the pancake into wedges and serve it warm. If you like, drizzle some maple syrup on top for an extra treat. Enjoy this warm, fluffy apple cinnamon delight—it’s perfect for a cozy morning!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Apples?
Absolutely! Pears work wonderfully in this recipe, and you can also try berries or even peaches for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on 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 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices for quick reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk. For the butter, use coconut oil or your favorite dairy-free butter alternative to keep the recipe dairy-free.
What Should I Do If My Pancake Isn’t Puffing?
If your pancake isn’t puffing up, make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the skillet inside. Opening the oven door while it’s baking can also cause it to collapse, so try to keep it closed! If it’s a thick batter, blending it longer to incorporate air can help increase puffiness.
