The Baked Apple Pancake is a cherished recipe, offering a delightful blend of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and a fluffy pancake base. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner, this dish brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

Apple Layer:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Gala recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons real maple syrup, plus more for serving

Pancake Layer:

• 1 1/4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup flour
• 1 heaping teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the melted butter into a glass pie plate and arrange the apple slices over it. Microwave for 2-3 minutes to soften the apples.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon and chopped pecans evenly over the apples, then drizzle with maple syrup.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine all pancake layer ingredients and blend until smooth.
5. Pour the batter over the prepared apple layer in the pie plate.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the top springs back when touched.
7. Serve warm, accompanied by bacon and fresh orange juice if desired.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg

A Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish

Baked apple pancakes are a standout in the world of breakfast and brunch recipes because they marry the comfort of a pancake with the fresh, seasonal flavor of apples. Apples are an incredibly versatile fruit, and they are perfect for this type of dish, as they hold their shape and provide a natural sweetness when baked. Adding them to the pancake base transforms the dish into something extra special.

The texture of this dish is another key element that makes it so appealing. The pancake batter forms a light, fluffy texture while baking, giving it the richness of a traditional pancake but with the convenience of a one-pan dish. The baked apples add a layer of tenderness and juiciness that contrasts wonderfully with the slightly crispy edges of the pancake. The cinnamon and maple syrup round out the flavor profile, offering a comforting sweetness that isn’t overwhelming.

This recipe also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients, allowing you to adjust the sweetness, spice levels, and toppings to your liking. Whether you prefer a lighter, fruit-forward flavor or a richer, spiced dish, the baked apple pancake can be customized to suit any taste.

Why Choose Baked Apple Pancakes?

If you’ve ever found yourself flipping individual pancakes for a crowd, you know the challenge of keeping pancakes warm, evenly cooked, and ready to serve. Baked apple pancakes, on the other hand, eliminate this hassle by baking the entire dish at once. This makes it the perfect option for large gatherings or busy mornings when you want to spend more time enjoying your meal than cooking and flipping pancakes one by one.

In addition to being incredibly easy to make, baked apple pancakes also allow you to incorporate healthy ingredients into your breakfast routine. Apples are naturally packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to your diet. Pairing them with the protein and carbohydrates from the pancake batter ensures a balanced and satisfying meal that keeps you full longer. Using whole-grain flour or incorporating other nutritious additions, like nuts or seeds, can elevate the health benefits even further.

Moreover, the recipe can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or looking for a vegan option, swapping ingredients is simple. For example, you can use almond milk and gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. It’s an excellent option for anyone looking for a wholesome yet indulgent breakfast.

The Importance of Apples in This Dish

Apples are the star ingredient of the baked apple pancake, and they play a crucial role in creating its unique flavor. The variety of apples you choose can make a big difference in the taste and texture of the dish. Some apples, like Gala or Fuji, are naturally sweeter and will provide a softer, more tender texture when baked. Other varieties, such as Granny Smith, are tart and firm, making them perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the pancake and adding a touch of acidity to the dish.

Baked apples have a wonderful ability to absorb the flavors they are cooked with. When combined with cinnamon and maple syrup, the apples become tender and slightly caramelized, creating a deliciously rich filling. This gives the dish a comforting, homestyle flavor that will remind you of your favorite fall desserts, yet it’s light enough to be enjoyed year-round.

How to Customize Your Baked Apple Pancake

One of the best things about the baked apple pancake is how easily it can be customized to your taste. You can experiment with different varieties of apples to find the one that suits your preference. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can add a sprinkle of brown sugar or drizzle some honey over the apples before baking them.

For added texture and crunch, consider topping the pancake with a handful of toasted nuts or granola after baking. Pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well and provide a satisfying contrast to the soft apples and pancake base. You could also mix some chopped nuts directly into the batter for an added layer of crunch in every bite.

If you prefer a more decadent option, you can layer the pancake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream after it’s baked. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can also make it feel even more indulgent.

Serving Suggestions

While the baked apple pancake is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a more complete meal. If you’re serving it for brunch or a special occasion, consider adding some crispy bacon or sausage to balance out the sweetness of the apples. The savory flavors from the meat pair perfectly with the sweetness of the pancake, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.

A side of fresh fruit is another great option to serve alongside the pancake. Sliced berries, citrus fruits, or even a fruit salad with a tangy dressing can help cut through the richness of the pancake and add a refreshing contrast.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Baked apple pancakes are incredibly easy to store and can be made in advance. This is perfect for those busy mornings when you want to have breakfast ready to go. To make the dish ahead of time, simply prepare it as instructed, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pancake can be reheated in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion

The baked apple pancake is a perfect breakfast or brunch dish that brings together the comforting flavors of pancakes and baked apples in a simple yet delicious way. With its fluffy pancake base, tender apples, and warm cinnamon flavor, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling content.