German Apple Pancake
This German Apple Pancake is a delightful treat combining a golden-brown, puffed pancake with sweet, caramelized apples. Perfect for lazy weekends or a special brunch, it contrasts fluffy textures with juicy apples, offering warmth and comfort in every bite.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan
- Peeler and knife for apple preparation
Ingredients
For the Pancake
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk 240 ml
- 1 cup all-purpose flour 125 g
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Apple Filling
- 2 large apples peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- lemon juice Optional: a squeeze for brightness
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure your pancake puffs up beautifully as it bakes.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- In your skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Tip: Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and add a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the apples' natural sweetness.
Step 3: Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, salt, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth. The batter should be well-combined but avoid over-mixing.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
- Once the apples are ready, pour the pancake batter over the apples in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve Warm
- Remove the pancake from the oven. It will deflate slightly as it cools, which is completely normal. Slice and serve warm, topped with your choice of syrup, powdered sugar, or a dollop of yogurt.
Notes
Pro tips: - Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and a nice crust. - Experiment with different apples for varied taste and texture. - For an extra treat, sprinkle nuts or raisins into the apple mixture. - Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. - Enjoy leftovers reheated for a quick breakfast treat.