Apple Cinnamon German Pancake

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is just what you need! This delightful dish combines fluffy pancake goodness with the sweet, comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon. It’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or even special family gatherings. Picture this: the aroma of baked apples filling your kitchen while you sip on your coffee—doesn’t that sound inviting?

This recipe has become a favorite in my house because it’s so simple yet impressive. You can whip it up quickly, and it feels like a treat, making everyone at the table happy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress up for brunch or keep it casual for breakfast any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple and cinnamon topping.
• Perfect for sharing: This recipe serves four, making it great for family breakfasts or brunch with friends.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the apple topping in advance for a quicker assembly in the morning.
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of fluffy pancake and tender apples creates a comforting dish everyone will crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this Apple Cinnamon German Pancake uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

For the Pancake Batter

• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup milk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Apple Topping

• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp butter (for skillet)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking for added crunch.
• Use different fruits: Swap out apples for pears or berries to create a different flavor profile.
• Try alternative spices: Experiment with cardamom or ginger for an exciting twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon German Pancake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that beautiful puffiness we all love in a German pancake.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

In a 9-inch cast iron skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally until the apples soften and the sugar dissolves—about 5-7 minutes. This step really brings out the flavors of the apples and spices!

Step 3: Whisk Together Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, flour, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth. Be sure there are no lumps; this helps create that airy texture we want in our pancake.

Step 4: Heat Up Your Skillet

Place 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet with the cooked apples. Then pop the skillet into your preheated oven for about 2-3 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly. This step ensures that when you pour in your batter, it starts cooking immediately.

Step 5: Pour in the Batter

Carefully take out the skillet from the oven (watch out—it’s hot!). Pour your pancake batter evenly over those deliciously caramelized apples. It might sizzle as it hits that warm skillet!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Bake your pancake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until it’s puffed up and golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when it’s beautifully risen—the anticipation will be worth it!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let your pancake cool slightly before slicing into wedges. Serve warm and enjoy every fluffy bite topped with those lovely caramelized apples!

Now gather around your table and enjoy this warm Apple Cinnamon German Pancake with loved ones—it’s bound to spark joy!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon German Pancake

Making the perfect Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is all about attention to detail and a touch of love. Here are some tips to ensure your pancake turns out fluffy and delicious every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in a fluffier pancake.
• Don’t skip the preheating – Preheating the skillet ensures that the pancake starts cooking immediately, helping it puff up beautifully and achieve that golden-brown color.
• Keep an eye on the apples – Cooking the apples just until soft allows them to retain some texture, adding delightful bites of fruit amidst the fluffy pancake.
• Avoid overmixing – Whisking the batter until just combined prevents gluten development, which can lead to a dense pancake instead of a light and airy one.
• Let it cool slightly before slicing – Allowing the pancake to set for a few minutes makes it easier to slice and serve without losing its shape.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon German Pancake

This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it a perfect centerpiece for any breakfast or brunch table. You can present it right in the skillet or transfer it onto a large serving plate for family-style sharing.

Garnishes

Here are some simple garnishes that can elevate your dish:

• Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a touch of sweetness and makes for an attractive presentation.
• Fresh whipped cream – A dollop of creamy goodness complements the flavors perfectly and adds a luxurious touch.
• Chopped nuts – Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Cinnamon German Pancake with these side dishes for a complete meal:

• Greek yogurt with honey – The creaminess of Greek yogurt balanced with honey provides a refreshing contrast to the warm pancake.
• Sautéed spinach with garlic – This savory side adds color and nutrition, balancing out the sweetness of the pancake while bringing depth to your brunch spread.
• Fruit salad – A mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and freshness, complementing the apple flavor in your pancake.
• Maple syrup or agave nectar – Drizzling either option on top adds extra sweetness if desired, making each bite even more delightful.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe! Your family and friends will be impressed by how easy it is to whip up such an elegant dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or even make it in advance for a busy morning.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pancake to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the pancake into individual portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor and freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries about the Apple Cinnamon German Pancake.

Can I make Apple Cinnamon German Pancake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, or replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.

How do I know when my Apple Cinnamon German Pancake is done?

The pancake is ready when it has puffed up and turned a lovely golden brown. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done!

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with pears, peaches, or berries for a different twist on this Apple Cinnamon German Pancake recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and fluffy Apple Cinnamon German Pancake! It’s a wonderful treat that brings comfort to any breakfast or brunch table. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo, this recipe is special because it combines simplicity with delicious flavors. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!