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Apple cinnamon German pancake topped with sautéed apples, powdered sugar, and maple syrup on a white plate.

Apple Cinnamon German Pancake

Michelle
A puffy, oven-baked Apple Cinnamon German Pancake topped with warm cinnamon apples an easy, cozy, family-friendly breakfast with apples perfect for weekends.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 4

Equipment

  • 10–12 inch oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal)
  • Mixing bowl (or blender)
  • Whisk (if not blending)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Oven mitts

Ingredients
  

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon plus more for apples if desired
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 medium apples peeled (optional), cored, and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
  • Maple syrup for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your empty oven-safe skillet in the oven while it preheats so it gets very hot.
  • Make the batter: In a mixing bowl (or blender), combine eggs, milk, flour, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until very smooth (a few tiny lumps are okay, but smoother is better for puff).
  • Prep the apples: Slice the apples thinly. Toss with brown sugar, lemon juice, and an extra pinch of cinnamon if you want them extra cozy.
  • Melt the butter in the hot skillet: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven (use oven mitts!). Add the butter and swirl until melted and foamy.
  • Pour and bake: Immediately pour the batter into the skillet and return it to the oven. Bake 18–22 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden around the edges.
  • Cook the apples (while it bakes): In a small skillet (or saucepan), sauté the apple mixture over medium heat 5–7 minutes until softened and glossy. (If you prefer, you can do this step first either way works.)
  • Serve right away: Spoon warm cinnamon apples over the pancake. Dust with powdered sugar and add maple syrup if desired. Slice into wedges and enjoy while it’s warm and puffy.

Notes

  • Best apples: Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Gala (crisp apples hold their shape).
  • Skillet size: A 10-inch skillet makes a thicker center; 12-inch makes it a bit thinner with more crispy edge.
  • No cast iron? Any oven-safe skillet works just be sure it can handle high heat.
Keyword Apple Cinnamon German Pancake