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Easy German Apple Pancake Recipe – Best Apfelpfannkuchen

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A quick and easy German Apple Pancake that puffs up beautifully in a cast iron skillet, with caramelized apples and crispy edges. Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or a comforting breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for the pan)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Maple syrup (warm)
  • Fresh whipped cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • Extra cinnamon (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your cast iron skillet inside while the oven heats up.
  2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges, about 1/4-inch thick.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes bubbly, about 2 minutes. Add the sliced apples and toss to coat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth. A few tiny lumps are okay — don’t overmix. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes.
  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (use oven mitts). Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and swirl until melted. Pour the batter into the hot skillet. Spoon the caramelized apples evenly over the top — don’t press them in.
  6. Place the skillet back in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, until the pancake is puffed and golden brown around the edges. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. Do not open the oven during the first 15 minutes of baking.
  7. Serve immediately. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and add a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Notes

Let the batter rest for 10 minutes for a lighter texture. Use room temperature ingredients for best puff. Do not open the oven during the first 15 minutes of baking. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: German apple pancake, Apfelpfannkuchen, apple pancake, German pancake, easy brunch recipe, cast iron skillet pancake

Find it online: https://piperplate.com/easy-german-apple-pancake-recipe-best-apfelpfannkuchen/