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Cozy German Apple Pancake: Easy Apfelpfannkuchen Recipe

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A cozy German apple pancake, or Apfelpfannkuchen, that puffs up golden and crisp in the oven with caramelized apples and a custard-like center. Simple ingredients and easy technique make this a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for the pan)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • Fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • Whipped cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your oven-safe skillet inside while it preheats.
  2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples into even wedges about 1/4-inch thick.
  3. Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until frothy and light, about 30 seconds. Add the milk and vanilla, and whisk until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, and salt together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, whisking until just combined (a few lumps are fine).
  4. Cook the apples: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl until melted. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the butter, then add the apple slices in a single layer. Cook over medium heat on the stovetop for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften and the butter mixture gets bubbly and caramelized.
  5. Add the batter: Pour the batter evenly over the apples. Don’t stir—just let it settle. Immediately transfer the skillet back to the oven.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown around the edges. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly.
  7. Serve immediately: Dust generously with powdered sugar, add a squeeze of lemon if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Room temperature ingredients are key for puffing. Don’t overmix the batter. Slice apples evenly (1/4-inch thick). Serve immediately as the pancake deflates quickly. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and oat milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: German apple pancake, Apfelpfannkuchen, apple pancake, German pancake, oven pancake, apple breakfast, fall recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/cozy-german-apple-pancake-easy-apfelpfannkuchen-recipe/