Baked Apple Pancakes: A Cozy Twist on a Classic
Fluffy, golden, and bursting with tender baked apples, these oven-baked pancakes are the ultimate balance of comfort and convenience. Think apple pie meets a breakfast pancake — but without the stovetop flipping.
Baked apple pancakes have their roots in traditional German “Apfelpfannkuchen,” often called Dutch Baby pancakes. Unlike regular pancakes that require constant flipping, this version bakes beautifully in the oven, creating a puffy, custard-like texture with caramelized apples on top.
This recipe is perfect for cozy mornings when you want something homemade but effortless. It’s healthier than pie, easier than stacking pancakes, and versatile enough to serve for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless: No standing over the stove flipping pancakes.
- Crowd-Friendly: One pan feeds the whole family.
- Comforting Flavor: Warm apples + cinnamon = instant nostalgia.
- Flexible: Works with gluten-free flour, non-dairy milk, or added toppings.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully.
Baked Apple Pancakes: A Cozy Twist on a Classic
Ingredients
- Ingredients List
- Apples – 2 medium Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith for tartness.
- Butter – 2 tbsp or coconut oil for dairy-free.
- Brown sugar – 2 tbsp or maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp.
- Eggs – 3 large.
- Milk – ¾ cup dairy or plant-based.
- All-purpose flour – ½ cup use oat or almond flour for gluten-free option.
- Salt – a pinch.
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp.
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar maple syrup, whipped cream, or chopped nuts.
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 400°F (200°C). Place a 9×13-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet inside while heating.
- Prepare apples: Thinly slice apples. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until tender and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Make batter: In a blender (or bowl), whisk eggs, milk, flour, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Batter should be thin and pourable.
- Bake: Carefully remove the hot dish from the oven. Add apples in a single layer, then pour the batter over them. Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup or whipped cream.
Pro Tips & Variations
- For a caramel twist: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce before baking.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
- Make it lighter: Use skim milk and reduce sugar for a healthier version.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast or Brunch: Pair with bacon, sausage, or fresh fruit.
- Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Holiday Table: A perfect cozy dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the apples the night before and blend the batter in advance. Assemble and bake fresh in the morning.
Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or berries all work well.
Do I need a cast-iron skillet?
No — a regular oven-safe baking dish works just as well.
