As the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, one can’t help but be drawn to the cozy kitchen corner where a delectable German Apple Pancake awaits its first eager taste-testers. This delightful treat, with its caramelized sweetness and fluffy texture, is a perfect breakfast or brunch option, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
One crisp autumn morning, my grandmother decided it was time for me to learn the art of making her renowned apple pancake. She would often recall how this recipe had been passed down through generations, each adding their own little twist. As a child, I would watch in awe as she sautéed the apples with such grace, patiently waiting for that precious moment when she’d ask for my help in flipping the pancake with what seemed like supernatural skill. That day, under her watchful eye, I mastered the flip and forever held the recipe close to my heart, a family heirloom now polished to perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This German Apple Pancake is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a culinary delight that marries simplicity with elegance. With minimal prep time and a handful of ingredients, this recipe is a time-saver, yet sophisticated enough to impress any brunch guest. The combination of caramelized apples and a fluffy pancake base creates a harmonious blend of flavors that are both refreshing and comforting. It’s perfect for special occasions and casual home breakfasts alike, and its customizable nature allows personal touches for an extra-special result.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add peeled, sliced apples. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the apples are caramelized.
Step 2
In a blender, combine eggs, flour, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a thicker batter, add an extra spoonful of flour. Let the mixture rest for a few minutes while the apples finish cooking.
Step 3
Pour the batter over the caramelized apples in the skillet, ensuring the apples are evenly distributed. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pancake is puffed and golden.
Step 4
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Using a spatula, gently loosen the edges. Carefully invert onto a serving plate. Admire the beautiful layers before you dig in!
Step 5
Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Enjoy hot to relish the melting flavors and fresh aroma.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place servings on a baking sheet covered with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Fresh berries or peaches can replace apples in the summer months for a seasonal twist, and a pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, spiced depth to the flavor profile. If you’re feeling daring, add a handful of chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, this may result in a denser texture, so try using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose for best results. You might also need to add a bit more milk to balance the consistency.
What’s the best type of apple to use? Opt for firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties hold their shape well during cooking and offer a nice balance to the sweetness of the pancake batter. Avoid mealy apples like Red Delicious as they tend to break down too much during cooking.
How can I make this pancake vegan? To make a vegan version, replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and choose a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. Use coconut oil or a non-dairy butter substitute to sauté the apples and coat the skillet.
German Apple Pancake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 1 large apple thinly sliced
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- Add the apple slices and cinnamon, and cook until the apples are tender, about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, milk, and sugar until smooth. Pour the batter over the apples.
- Dot the remaining tablespoon of butter over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the pancake is puffed and golden.
