German Apple Pancake: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

German Apple Pancake, or Apfelpfannkuchen as it’s known in Germany, is a delightful one-pan wonder that will transform your breakfast or brunch into a truly special occasion. Forget flipping individual pancakes – this recipe bakes up into a golden, puffy masterpiece, studded with sweet, tender apples. Have you ever imagined a breakfast that feels both comforting and elegant? This is it!

This dish has deep roots in German culinary tradition, often enjoyed as a hearty and satisfying meal, especially during the apple harvest season. It’s a testament to simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. While variations exist across different regions, the core concept remains the same: a custardy batter baked with apples until golden brown and slightly caramelized.

What makes the German Apple Pancake so universally loved? It’s a combination of factors. The taste is a symphony of sweet and subtly spiced flavors, with the apples providing a delightful contrast to the rich, eggy batter. The texture is equally appealing – a slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, almost pudding-like interior. And let’s not forget the convenience! This recipe requires minimal effort and cleanup, making it perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it to family or friends. Get ready to experience a taste of Germany right in your own kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Pancake:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Apple Filling:
• 3 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For Serving:
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional)

Preparing the Apple Filling:

Okay, let’s start with the apple filling. This is where the magic happens, and the aroma will fill your kitchen, making you even more excited for the pancake!

1. Melt the Butter: In a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any oven-safe skillet will work), melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is evenly distributed across the bottom of the skillet.
2. Add the Apples: Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the thinly sliced apples to the skillet. Try to arrange them in a single layer as much as possible. Don’t worry if they overlap a little; they’ll shrink as they cook.
3. Sprinkle with Sugar and Spices: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg evenly over the apples.
4. Add Lemon Juice: Drizzle the 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the apples. The lemon juice helps to prevent the apples from browning and adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness.
5. Cook the Apples: Cook the apples over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape. They should be nicely browned and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them! Adjust the heat if needed.
6. Remove from Heat: Once the apples are cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the stovetop. Set it aside while you prepare the pancake batter.

Preparing the Pancake Batter:

Now, let’s get the pancake batter ready. This is a simple batter, but it’s important to mix it properly to ensure a light and fluffy pancake.

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Make sure there are no lumps of flour or baking powder.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure the eggs are well beaten and the butter is fully incorporated.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay; overmixing will result in a tough pancake.

Baking the German Apple Pancake:

This is where the magic truly happens! We’re going to bake the pancake right in the skillet with the apples. The oven heat will puff up the pancake beautifully.

1. Pour Batter Over Apples: Carefully pour the pancake batter evenly over the apples in the skillet. Make sure the batter covers all the apples.
2. Bake in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up, golden brown, and set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep a close eye on it, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
3. Check for Doneness: To ensure the pancake is fully cooked, gently shake the skillet. The pancake should be firm and not wobbly. If it’s still wobbly in the center, bake for a few more minutes.
4. Remove from Oven: Once the pancake is golden brown and set, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Use oven mitts, as the skillet will be very hot!

Serving the German Apple Pancake:

Now for the best part – enjoying your delicious German Apple Pancake! There are so many ways to serve it, but here’s my favorite:

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Generously dust the pancake with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and makes it look beautiful.
2. Cut into Wedges: Carefully cut the pancake into wedges using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
3. Serve Warm: Serve the pancake warm, straight from the skillet.
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Drizzle with maple syrup, top with whipped cream, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless!

Tips and Variations:

• Apple Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Granny Smith apples will add a tartness, while Fuji apples will add extra sweetness.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apple filling for a warmer, more complex flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the apples before baking for added texture and flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or soy milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it in the skillet before adding the pancake batter.
• Skillet Size: I recommend using a 10-inch or 12-inch oven-safe skillet. If you use a smaller skillet, the pancake will be thicker and may require a longer baking time.
• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the pancake from sticking to the skillet, make sure the skillet is well-seasoned or lightly greased with butter or cooking spray before adding the apples.
• Baking Time Adjustments: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the pancake and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Serving Size: This recipe serves about 4-6 people. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this German Apple Pancake as much as I do! It’s a perfect breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

This German Apple Pancake isn’t just a breakfast dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a comforting reminder of cozy mornings, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The combination of the sweet, caramelized apples, the fluffy, custardy pancake base, and that hint of cinnamon is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to slow down, savor every bite, and share the joy with loved ones.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to method, feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a truly decadent experience, try serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Looking for variations? Absolutely! You can easily swap out the apples for other fruits like pears, peaches, or even berries. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch. And for those who prefer a slightly less sweet pancake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter. If you are feeling extra fancy, you can add a splash of rum or brandy to the batter for a more complex flavor profile.

For a brunch gathering, consider making individual German Apple Pancakes in smaller cast iron skillets. It’s a beautiful presentation and allows everyone to customize their toppings. You could set up a topping bar with various fruits, nuts, syrups, and even chocolate chips.

Don’t have a cast iron skillet? No problem! You can bake this pancake in a regular oven-safe baking dish. Just make sure to grease it well to prevent sticking. The cooking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it and bake until it’s golden brown and puffed up.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your breakfast or brunch rotation. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend morning, a special occasion, or simply when you’re craving something warm and comforting. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it accessible to even the most novice cooks.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of a homemade German Apple Pancake. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What toppings did you use? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of pancake lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy baking! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to start your day or end it with a sweet treat. Don’t forget to tag me in your photos so I can see your beautiful creations! I am always looking for new ways to improve my recipes, so any feedback is greatly appreciated. Enjoy!