Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake

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When the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisper, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of fall. There’s nothing quite like the aroma of sweet apples and spicy cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. Enter the Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake, a delightful twist on traditional pancakes that gives you a fluffy, oven-baked masterpiece perfect for breakfast or brunch. This recipe is both simple and impressive, making it a great option for special occasions or cozy weekends.

Imagine a pancake so puffy that it rises beautifully in the oven, cradling perfectly sautéed apples and warm spices in every bite. Served with a sweet glaze that drizzles effortlessly over the top, you won’t find a more satisfying way to enjoy the season’s beloved flavors.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake is not just another breakfast option; it’s a culinary experience! Here’s why you should absolutely whip it up:

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to impress their family and friends.
• Beautiful Presentation: The pancake rises magnificently in the oven, creating a show-stopping centerpiece for your table.
• Deliciously Warm Flavors: The combination of cinnamon and apples evokes the essence of cozy autumn mornings.
• Customizable: You can adapt it to suit your preferences, adding nuts or different fruits as desired.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll need the following for the pancake and glaze:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 large apples, cored and sliced ¼ inch thick
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (I use 1%)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the glaze:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• More sautéed apples for garnish if desired

How To Make Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s jump right into the steps to create this deliciously fluffy pancake.

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Next, in a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add in the brown sugar and stir until combined. Toss in the sliced apples, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the apple mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, pour the pancake batter over the sautéed apples, ensuring everything is well covered.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. The pancake will puff up beautifully and turn a lovely golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze

While the pancake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and ground cinnamon until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk if you prefer it thinner.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pancake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pancake, and if desired, garnish with more sautéed apples. Slice and serve warm, and enjoy as the flavors dance across your palate.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake turns out perfectly, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
• Don’t skip the step of letting the apples caramelize; this enhances their flavor dramatically.
• Make sure your oven is well-preheated to achieve that gorgeous puffiness in the pancake.
• For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Feeling creative? Here are some fun variations and customizations you can try with this recipe:

• Add cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of flavor.
• Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• Try different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt you will), storing them is easy! Allow the pancake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator.

To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or slice individual portions and heat them in the microwave for a quick breakfast treat.

FAQ

Can I make this pancake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sautéed apples and pancake batter ahead of time. Just refrigerate them separately and assemble when you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze the Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake?

Certainly! After baking, let the pancake cool completely, slice it, and then wrap the individual slices in plastic wrap. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

For the best flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith all work wonderfully.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free milk, and replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

The Apple Cinnamon Puffed Pancake is a celebration of flavors that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Its light, fluffy texture combined with the sweetness of sautéed apples and a drizzle of glaze makes it an irresistible breakfast treat or a fantastic centerpiece for your brunch table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this luscious pancake is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful dish, and enjoy a heartwarming morning together. Happy baking!