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Easy German Apple Pancake for Two in 30 Minutes

German apple pancake for two - featured image

A quick and easy German apple pancake for two, made with simple ingredients and ready in 30 minutes. Thin slices of apple caramelize in butter before a light, puffy batter is poured over and baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your empty cast iron skillet in the oven while it preheats.
  2. Prepare the apple: Peel, core, and slice thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). Toss slices with 1 tablespoon sugar, cinnamon (if using), and lemon juice. Set aside.
  3. Make the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk eggs until frothy (about 30 seconds). Add milk and vanilla, whisk again. Add flour, remaining 1 tablespoon sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth (a few lumps are fine). Let rest.
  4. Carefully remove hot skillet from oven. Add butter and swirl until melted and sizzling. Arrange apple slices in a single layer in the butter.
  5. Slowly pour batter evenly over apples. Do not stir.
  6. Return skillet to oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until puffed and golden brown around the edges and center is set.
  7. Serve immediately: Dust with powdered sugar, slice into wedges, and enjoy warm.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs and preheat the skillet thoroughly. Slice apples thinly (about 1/8 inch) to ensure they soften during baking. The pancake will puff dramatically in the oven and deflate slightly upon cooling—this is normal. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: German apple pancake, apple pancake, breakfast for two, easy pancake, cast iron skillet pancake