Name: German Apple Pancake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: ⅔ cup Mott's® Original Applesauce; 4 eggs; 4 tbsp butter; ⅔ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; pinch salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp confectioners' sugar; For Streusel Topping:; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ½ tsp Cinnamon; 2 tsp butter

This delightful German apple pancake is an excellent blend of sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this recipe combines the rich taste of applesauce with a light and fluffy pancake base, topped with a crunchy streusel. It's a comforting dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Photos of German Apple Pancake Recipe

One ingredient you might not have on hand is applesauce. You can usually find it in the canned fruit or baking section of your supermarket. Make sure to pick up the original, unsweetened variety for this recipe.

Ingredients For German Apple Pancake

applesauce: Provides the apple flavor base and moisture for the pancake.

eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and gives the pancake its structure.

butter: Adds richness and helps in achieving a golden-brown color.

all-purpose flour: The main ingredient that gives the pancake its body.

granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the pancake batter and the streusel topping.

salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

vanilla extract: Adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the pancake.

confectioners' sugar: Used for dusting the top of the finished pancake for a sweet touch.

cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the streusel topping.

One reader, Ephraim Stump says:

This German apple pancake recipe is fantastic! The blend of applesauce and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor, and the streusel topping adds the perfect crunch. It's easy to make and turns out beautifully golden and puffed. A delicious breakfast treat that my family loves!

Ephraim Stump

Key Techniques for Crafting German Apple Pancakes

How to heat applesauce: Heat applesauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling. How to blend ingredients: Use a blender to combine applesauce and eggs, then add vanilla, sugar, salt, flour, and melted butter, blending until evenly mixed. How to prepare an oven-proof skillet: Heat the skillet on medium heat, coat with melted butter, and pour the batter into the skillet. How to bake the pancake: Place the skillet in the middle rack of the oven and bake until golden brown and puffed. How to make streusel topping: Mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon, then cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

How To Make German Apple Pancake

This apple pancake can be on your table in just 35 minutes! With apple sauce, flour and more, enjoy baked pancake with a streusel topping for a sweet treat.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅔cupMott’s® Original Applesauce
4eggs,lightly beaten
4tbspbutter,melted, divided
⅔cupall-purpose flour
1tbspgranulated sugar
pinchsalt
1tspvanilla extract
2tbspconfectioners’ sugar

For Streusel Topping:

2tbspall-purpose flour
¼cupgranulated sugar
½tspcinnamon,ground
2tspbutter

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Heat applesauce in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Pour applesauce into the blender. Add the eggs. Blend until combined for about 5 seconds.
Add vanilla, sugar, salt, and flour into the blender. Blend until evenly mixed. Add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Blend for another 30 seconds.
Heat oven-proof skillet on medium heat. Pour a tablespoon of melted butter into the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom and sides of the pan. Immediately pour the batter into the skillet; place in the middle rack of the oven.
Bake until golden brown around the edges and the pancake is puffed for about 20 minutes.
Brush remaining melted butter evenly over the pancake. Sift powdered sugar over top, if desired.

Streusel Topping:

Mix together flour, sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle over the pancake. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 367.25kcal
Fat: 17.81g
Saturated Fat: 9.90g
Trans Fat: 0.56g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.43g
Carbohydrates: 43.79g
Fiber: 1.29g
Sugar: 23.70g
Protein: 8.18g
Cholesterol: 195.57mg
Sodium: 339.45mg
Calcium: 37.13mg
Potassium: 123.28mg
Iron: 2.04mg
Vitamin A: 182.56µg
Vitamin C: 8.63mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting German Apple Pancakes

To achieve a perfectly puffed German apple pancake, ensure your oven-proof skillet is preheated and hot before pouring in the batter. This helps the pancake rise evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown edge.

Time-Saving Tips for Making German Apple Pancakes

Preheat the oven first: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F so it's ready when you are.

Use a blender: Blending the applesauce, eggs, and other ingredients saves time and ensures a smooth batter.

Melt butter in advance: Melt all the butter at once and use it as needed throughout the recipe.

Prepare streusel topping ahead: Mix the streusel topping ingredients while the pancake bakes to save time.

Use an oven-proof skillet: This allows you to go from stovetop to oven without transferring the batter, saving cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For German Apple Pancake Recipe

mott's® original applesauce - Substitute with homemade applesauce: Homemade applesauce can be made by cooking down apples with a bit of water and sugar, providing a fresher and more customizable flavor.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients together.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a similar texture and flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the pancake slightly denser.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a more natural alternative, often with a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with powdered stevia: Powdered stevia is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used to reduce sugar intake.
all-purpose flour (for streusel topping) - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can add a different texture and is gluten-free if needed.
granulated sugar (for streusel topping) - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor to the streusel topping.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements the apples well.
butter (for streusel topping) - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a slight coconut flavor.

How to Beautifully Present German Apple Pancakes

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the German apple pancake in individual cast-iron skillets to maintain heat and enhance the rustic appeal. Each portion should be a perfect circle, about 4 inches in diameter.
Use decoration: Garnish with a light dusting of confectioners' sugar and a delicate drizzle of caramel sauce. Add a few thin slices of fresh apple fanned out on top for visual appeal.
Add texture contrast: Ensure the streusel topping is evenly distributed and slightly caramelized. The crunch from the streusel should contrast with the soft, fluffy pancake.
Incorporate color: Add a small sprig of fresh mint on top for a pop of green. This not only adds color but also a refreshing aroma.
Serve with accompaniments: Pair the German apple pancake with a side of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold, creamy texture complements the warm pancake beautifully.
Use elegant plating: Place the skillet on a wooden board or a slate plate to enhance the presentation. Add a small ramekin of warm applesauce on the side for an extra touch of flavor.
Highlight the ingredients: Emphasize the use of Mott's® original applesauce by mentioning it on a small, elegant menu card placed beside the dish. This adds a touch of sophistication and informs the diners of the quality ingredients used.

Essential Tools for Making German Apple Pancakes

Oven: Used to bake the pancake at a consistent temperature of 400 degrees F.
Small saucepan: Used to heat the applesauce until hot but not boiling.
Blender: Used to combine the applesauce, eggs, vanilla, sugar, salt, flour, and melted butter into a smooth batter.
Oven-proof skillet: Used to cook the pancake batter in the oven, ensuring it can withstand high temperatures.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the applesauce and flour accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon precisely.
Mixing bowl: Used to mix the streusel topping ingredients together.
Pastry cutter: Used to cut the butter into the streusel mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Sifter: Used to sift powdered sugar over the pancake for a light, even coating.
Brush: Used to brush the melted butter evenly over the pancake after baking.
Spatula: Used to help spread the batter evenly in the skillet if needed.

Storing and Freezing German Apple Pancakes: A Guide

Allow the german apple pancake to cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, wrap the pancake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap the cooled pancake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped pancake in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat a refrigerated pancake, unwrap and place it on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat a frozen pancake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, unwrap and place it on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the pancake in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
If you plan to freeze individual portions, slice the cooled pancake into wedges before wrapping and freezing. This way, you can easily reheat single servings as needed.

How To Reheat Leftover German Apple Pancakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover german apple pancake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the pancake loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to crisp up the edges and the streusel topping.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place a single slice of the german apple pancake on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. If reheating multiple slices, increase the time accordingly and rotate the plate halfway through for even heating. Keep in mind that the microwave method may result in a slightly softer texture compared to oven reheating.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover german apple pancake. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of the pancake in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. This method is perfect for restoring the crispy texture of the pancake edges and the streusel topping.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the pan and swirl to coat the bottom. Place a slice of the german apple pancake in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is ideal if you want to add a little extra richness to the pancake and create a crispy exterior.

Interesting Trivia About German Apple Pancakes

A German apple pancake, also known as a Dutch baby, is a large, fluffy pancake that is baked in the oven rather than cooked on a stovetop. It is often served as a breakfast or brunch dish and can be topped with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or streusel.

Is Making German Apple Pancakes at Home Cost-Effective?

This German apple pancake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like eggs, all-purpose flour, and applesauce are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The streusel topping adds a delightful touch without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10 USD. Considering its simplicity and delicious outcome, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This German Pancake Recipe Healthy or Not?

The German apple pancake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat.
The use of all-purpose flour and sugar contributes to the high carbohydrate and calorie content of the dish.
The streusel topping, made with additional butter, sugar, and flour, further increases the calorie and fat content.

However, the recipe does include some healthier ingredients, such as applesauce and eggs. Applesauce provides some dietary fiber and nutrients, while eggs are a good source of protein.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and streusel topping, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use a smaller amount of butter or replace it with a healthier fat, such as coconut oil or avocado oil.
Incorporate more fresh fruit, such as diced apples or pears, into the batter to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Serve the pancake with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on This German Apple Pancake Recipe

This German apple pancake recipe offers a delightful twist with the use of applesauce, adding a rich apple flavor throughout. The blend of ingredients creates a light, fluffy texture, while the streusel topping adds a satisfying crunch and sweetness. The method is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. However, incorporating fresh apple slices could enhance the texture and flavor even more. Overall, it's a delicious and comforting dish perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Enhance Your German Apple Pancake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The crispy, caramelized edges of brussels sprouts paired with the smoky goodness of bacon create a delightful contrast to the sweet and fluffy German apple pancake. The savory notes will balance the dessert-like qualities, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: Imagine the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions mingling with the creamy tang of goat cheese. This tart offers a sophisticated touch that complements the simplicity of the apple pancake, adding a layer of complexity to your meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup, with its earthy sweetness and hint of spice, serves as a warm and comforting prelude to the German apple pancake. The smooth texture and rich flavor will set the stage for the dessert to shine.

Arugula and Pear Salad: Arugula and Pear Salad: The peppery bite of arugula combined with the juicy sweetness of pear slices, topped with a light vinaigrette, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich pancake. The crisp textures and vibrant flavors will cleanse your palate and enhance the overall dining experience.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love German Apple Pancakes

Dutch Baby Pancake: A delightful dessert or breakfast treat, this pancake puffs up beautifully in the oven and is perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Apple Strudel: This classic German dessert features layers of flaky pastry filled with spiced apples, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these moist muffins are packed with chunks of apple and a generous amount of cinnamon. Top with a streusel for extra crunch.

Apple Crumble: A comforting dessert featuring tender apples baked under a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumble topping. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

French Apple Tart: Elegant and delicious, this tart showcases thinly sliced apples arranged in a beautiful pattern on a buttery pastry crust. Brush with apricot glaze for a glossy finish.

Appetizer and Entrée Pairings for German Apple Pancakes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by hollowing out large mushroom caps and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly for a rich, creamy bite that's perfect for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Create a vibrant and fresh Bruschetta by toasting slices of baguette until crisp. Rub each slice with a clove of garlic and top with a mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper for a simple yet flavorful appetizer.

Main Courses:

Chicken Marsala: Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken cutlets with a rich and flavorful Marsala wine sauce. The sauce is made with Marsala wine, mushrooms, and shallots, creating a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. Serve this dish over buttered noodles or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in, offering a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Beef Stroganoff: Beef Stroganoff is a hearty and comforting dish that features tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy sour cream sauce. The sauce is enriched with mushrooms, onions, and a hint of Dijon mustard, giving it a complex and satisfying flavor. Serve this over egg noodles or rice for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. This dish is ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, offering a comforting and delicious experience.

Why trust this German Apple Pancake Recipe:

This German apple pancake recipe is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and modern convenience. Using Mott's® original applesauce ensures a consistent and rich apple flavor, while the streusel topping adds a perfect crunchy contrast. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust in the quality ingredients and the precise method to deliver a delicious and impressive dish every time.

Want to share your experience making this German Apple Pancake Recipe or have any tips to perfect it? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh apples instead of applesauce?

Yes, you can use fresh apples. Just peel, core, and slice them thinly. Sauté the apple slices in a bit of butter until they're soft, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I make this pancake ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when it's puffed and golden. However, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just give it a quick blend before pouring it into the skillet.

What kind of skillet should I use?

An oven-proof skillet, like a cast-iron skillet, works best for this recipe. It retains heat well and helps the pancake puff up nicely.

Can I skip the streusel topping?

Absolutely, the pancake is delicious on its own. The streusel topping adds a nice crunch and extra sweetness, but it's optional.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or a toaster oven to maintain the crispiness.