Who doesn’t love a warm, cozy pancake loaded with sweet apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon? This baked cinnamon apple pancake is super easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. Plus, it’s a great way to start your day with some delicious flavors!
What Makes This Pancake Special?
This isn’t just your everyday pancake. Baked pancakes are fluffy, thick, and incredibly satisfying. You throw everything in a pan, pop it in the oven, and let it bake while you sip your coffee or tea. And the best part? The filling, sweet-flavored apples combined with warm cinnamon create a treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get our ingredients straight. Here’s what you’ll want to gather up to make this tasty pancake:
- For the Pancake:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (you can use almond or oat milk for a twist)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples (like Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Topping (Optional):
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream (you can use a non-dairy version if you prefer)
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Apple Pancake
Let’s get to the fun part—making the pancake! Follow these easy steps to have your baked pancake on the table.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a mixing bowl, toss together:
– Chopped apples
– Brown sugar
– Cinnamon
– Lemon juice
Give it a good mix and set it aside. This will get those apples all sweet and zesty!
Step 3: Make the Batter
In another bowl, mix:
– Flour
– Sugar
– Baking powder
– Cinnamon
– Salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– Milk
– Eggs
– Oil
– Vanilla extract
Now, combine both mixtures, stirring just until everything is mixed in. Don’t overdo it; a few lumps are totally okay.
Step 4: Combine and Pour
Grease a baking dish (9×9 inch works great). Pour a little bit of the batter into the bottom, then layer over half of the apple mixture. Pour the rest of the batter on top and finish with the remaining apples. It’s like a delicious apple surprise in the middle!
Step 5: Bake It Up
Pop that dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let it cool for a few minutes, cut yourself a slice (or two), and top with maple syrup or whipped cream if you like. Dig in!
Tips for Perfect Pancakes
Creating the perfect baked cinnamon apple pancake isn’t too tricky, but here are a few tips to get it just right:
- Choose the Right Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness well, while sweeter apples like Fuji add a delicious flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make your pancake tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Add Nuts or Raisins: For extra crunch or sweetness, toss in some chopped nuts or raisins to the batter. Just be sure they’re halal!
- Experiment with Flavors: You can swap out apples for other fruits like pears or berries if you’re feeling adventurous.
Creative Variations on the Recipe
Feel like changing things up? Here are some fun twists you can try:
- Cinnamon Roll Pancake: Drizzle some cream cheese icing on top after baking for that sweet cinnamon roll vibe.
- Spiced Pumpkin Pancake: Add a bit of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the batter for a seasonal treat.
- Banana Cinnamon Pancake: Swap the apples for mashed bananas for a different flavor, but just as tasty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour works well, but it might give your pancake a denser texture. You can also do half and half if you want a lighter pancake.
How can I store leftovers?
Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them in the microwave or reheat in the oven.
Can this pancake be made in advance?
For sure! You can prepare the batter and apple filling the night before, refrigerate them separately and then bake them in the morning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free too.
There you have it! A delightful, simple baked cinnamon apple pancake recipe that’s packed with flavors and perfect for any occasion. It’s easy enough to whip up during a busy weekday morning but special enough to impress guests. Plus, it’s halal-friendly, so everyone can enjoy!
