German Apple Pancake

Name: German Apple Pancake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 medium-sized apples; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 4 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; powdered sugar

A red dish with a German Apple Pancake, a delicious cake-like dessert made with apples.

What You’ll Find Here

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Welcome to our kitchen, where we’ll be preparing a classic and delicious recipe for German Apple Pancake. Also known as Apfelpfannkuchen, this pancake is a traditional German breakfast dish that features tender apples baked into a light and fluffy pancake batter. Bursting with flavors of cinnamon and apples, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for breakfast or brunch. Join us as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delightful dish, along with tips and variations to make it your own. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Germany in the comfort of your own home!

The German Apple Pancake, also known as “Apfelpfannkuchen” in German, is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish with origins deeply rooted in German cuisine. This pancake is a testament to the country’s love for apples and their ability to create delicious and comforting dishes.

Apples have been a staple in German culinary traditions for centuries, and this pancake dish is a creative way to showcase their natural sweetness and flavor.
The German Apple Pancake is often associated with the southern region of Germany, particularly the state of Baden-Württemberg, where apples are abundant.
It’s believed that this dish has been enjoyed in German households for generations, with variations passed down through families.

The German Apple Pancake reflects the rich culinary heritage of Germany and the tradition of creating hearty and satisfying breakfasts.

Our German Apple Pancake is a mouthwatering combination of fluffy pancake batter and caramelized apples. The pancake is baked in the oven, resulting in a golden and puffy delight that's perfect for sharing. The apples are cooked until tender and lightly sweetened with sugar and cinnamon, creating a delicious filling that infuses the entire pancake with flavor. This recipe is a wonderful way to showcase the natural sweetness of apples and the comforting warmth of cinnamon. Whether you're hosting a brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a special breakfast, this German Apple Pancake is a must-try.

Tools and Equipment

Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
Mixing bowls: Buy On Amazon
Whisk: Buy On Amazon
Knife: Buy On Amazon
Cutting board: Buy On Amazon
Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon

Author: Anna Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: German Courses: Breakfast, Brunch, Vegetarian

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 4 Calories: 337.86 Best Season: Fall

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish in the oven to heat up.
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In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cook until the apples are tender and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and smooth.
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Carefully remove the hot skillet or baking dish from the oven. Add the cooked apples to the bottom of the skillet or spread them evenly in the baking dish.
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Pour the pancake batter over the apples, spreading it evenly to cover them completely.
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Place the skillet or baking dish back into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
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Remove the German Apple Pancake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Cut the pancake into wedges and serve warm. Enjoy the delicious combination of fluffy pancake and caramelized apples!
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Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 337.86kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12.67g20%
Saturated Fat 6.22g32%
Trans Fat 0.02g
Cholesterol 208.03mg70%
Sodium 241.2mg11%
Potassium 272.41mg8%
Total Carbohydrate 44.15g15%
Dietary Fiber 2.23g9%
Sugars 17.69g
Protein 11.81g24%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note

Tips and Variations:

Add a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a dash of lemon zest to the pancake batter for extra flavor.
Serve the German Apple Pancake with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Experiment with different apple varieties, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, to vary the flavor and texture of the pancake.
For a more indulgent treat, serve the pancake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream.
Customize the level of sweetness by adjusting the amount of sugar used in the apple filling.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the German Apple Pancake as a delicious breakfast or brunch dish alongside crispy bacon or sausage links.
Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of apple cider for a complete and satisfying meal.

Allergen Information:

The German Apple Pancake typically contains allergens such as wheat (from flour), eggs, dairy (from milk and butter), and potential allergens in flavorings or toppings. Individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions should choose allergen-free alternatives as needed.

Wine or Drink Pairing:

The German Apple Pancake pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, and milk.
For a more indulgent pairing, consider a sweet German Riesling wine, which complements the apple's natural sweetness and adds a touch of elegance to the meal.

Storage and Leftovers:

The German Apple Pancake is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the oven, as it has a lovely, puffy texture.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat individual slices in the oven at a low temperature to maintain their texture and flavor.
Leftover pancake slices can be a convenient and delicious breakfast option, especially when warmed and served with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, ensuring that every bite is savored.

Keywords: German Apple Pancake, Apfelpfannkuchen, Breakfast, Brunch, Apple Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

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What makes a German Apple Pancake different from a regular pancake?

A German Apple Pancake, or Dutch Baby, is baked in the oven, resulting in a puffed and airy texture. Unlike regular pancakes cooked on a griddle, this pancake incorporates caramelized apples directly into the batter, giving it a unique flavor and texture that combines the richness of baked custard with sweet, tender apples.

Can I use different fruits in the German Apple Pancake?

Yes, you can substitute the apples with other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. Just ensure the fruit is cooked until tender before adding it to the batter. Each fruit will give a distinct flavor and texture to the pancake, allowing you to customize the recipe to your liking.

How can I make the German Apple Pancake dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free German Apple Pancake, use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk in place of regular milk. Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan butter or coconut oil. These swaps will maintain the recipe’s integrity while accommodating a dairy-free diet.

How do I store and reheat leftover German Apple Pancake?

Store leftover German Apple Pancake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place individual slices in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) to restore some of their original texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pancake soggy.

Can I prepare the German Apple Pancake ahead of time?

While the German Apple Pancake is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the apples and batter ahead of time. Store the apples in the refrigerator and keep the batter covered. When ready to bake, preheat the oven, heat the skillet, and assemble the pancake for a quick and delicious meal.

What should I do if the German Apple Pancake doesn't puff up?

If the pancake doesn't puff up as expected, ensure your oven was preheated to the correct temperature and that the skillet was properly heated. The batter should be poured into a hot skillet to create the desired puffiness. Also, make sure not to open the oven door while baking, as this can prevent the pancake from rising.

Can I use a different type of skillet for baking the German Apple Pancake?

Yes, you can use various oven-safe skillets or baking dishes, such as cast iron, stainless steel, or glass. Just ensure that the skillet or dish is well-heated before adding the apples and batter to achieve the best puff and texture.