Delicious Apple Spiced Baked Pancakes: Your New Favorite Fall Breakfast
Imagine a breakfast experience that perfectly blends the comforting warmth of a spiced apple pie with the light, fluffy texture of a custard-like pancake. These Baked Pancakes With Spiced Apples are exactly that: a culinary illusion that will delight your taste buds. Diced apples, simmered in aromatic ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and their own natural juices, create a luscious, tender filling. Encased within the honey-sweetened, creamy folds of a classic Dutch baby pancake batter, this dish transcends a simple breakfast, offering a delightful experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome. The rich, custard-like texture of the pancake beautifully complements the tender, flavorful apples, making every bite a celebration of fall.
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The enchanting aroma of simmering apples, followed by the comforting scent of freshly baked pancakes wafting from the oven, creates an aromatic blend that is absolutely perfect for the fall season. This delightful dish quickly became a household favorite, and we are confident that you and your loved ones will adore it too!
To whip up this magical breakfast or dessert, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients: fresh apples, coconut oil (or butter for a classic touch), ground cloves, ground cinnamon, all-purpose flour, milk, eggs, honey (or maple syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. These components come together to create a symphony of flavors that evoke the essence of autumn.
As the leaves begin to change and a crispness returns to the air, it’s hard not to be surprised by the swift arrival of autumn. Every year, it feels like summer has just begun, and then suddenly, we’re surrounded by pumpkin spice lattes and vibrant foliage. The transition from the warm, often humid embrace of summer to the refreshing chill of fall brings a mix of emotions. While I’ll always cherish the long, bright days of summer, the excitement of cool breezes, clear blue skies, breathtaking copper and gold leaves, and the promise of warm, hearty meals and drinks makes fall an eagerly anticipated season. It’s a fresh chapter, a time for cozy gatherings and delicious baking. Nature truly orchestrates these seasons perfectly, arriving just when we need them most.
So, while a few lingering summer recipes might still make an appearance, September unequivocally marks the unofficial, yet undeniable, dawn of all things fall. This means it’s time to fully embrace the flavors of the season, and nothing says autumn quite like the comforting combination of apples and warm spices. This recipe captures that very essence, bringing the quintessential tastes and aromas of fall right into your kitchen.
Breakfast Or Dessert?
Here at our home, we have a deep appreciation for both a hearty breakfast and an indulgent dessert. When a dish manages to effortlessly combine the best of both worlds, it immediately earns a prime spot on our kitchen table, especially alongside a steaming cup of coffee. These Apple Spiced Baked Pancakes do exactly that. They strike a perfect balance, offering a simple yet profound sweetness that highlights the natural sugars and subtle tartness of the apples, beautifully complemented by the rich, creamy texture of the egg custard. The inherent flavors are so satisfying that the dish stands wonderfully on its own, but it truly shines with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar or a generous drizzle of high-quality maple syrup. Whether you’re planning a special morning meal or an evening treat, these baked pancakes fit the bill, providing a versatile and utterly delicious option for any time of day.
To help you prepare this delightful recipe, we’ve gathered a list of tools that will make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable. These are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Your support helps us continue to bring you more delicious recipes!
Tools you may need for this recipe include: cast iron skillets (essential for that perfect golden crust and even cooking), a set of sturdy mixing bowls, a reliable blender or mixer (we highly recommend this hand mixer for ease), precise measuring cups, accurate measuring spoons, and a clear liquid measuring cup. Additionally, a few silicone spatulas will prove incredibly handy for scraping down bowls and spreading ingredients.
How Do You Make Baked Pancakes?
Ah, the magic of baked pancakes, also affectionately known as Dutch Baby Pancakes! If you’re accustomed to flipping traditional pancakes on a griddle, you’re in for a delightful and surprisingly simple treat. Baked pancakes are fundamentally different in their preparation and result. Instead of cooking individual servings on the stovetop, a thin, rich batter is poured into a hot, buttered (or oiled) skillet, often containing fruit, and then baked in the oven. The high heat of the oven and the steam generated cause the pancake to puff up dramatically around the edges, creating a stunning, golden-brown rim and a soft, custard-like center. The result is a dramatically impressive dish that requires minimal active effort, making it perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch. To see exactly how it’s done, check out our simple how-to video below. If you prefer to read the instructions, simply scroll past the video for the detailed steps.
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Preheat your oven to a robust 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is key to achieving that characteristic puff and golden exterior of baked pancakes.
- To prepare the spiced apples, distribute the coconut oil evenly between two 10-inch cast iron skillets. Combine your diced apples (we recommend peeling most of the skin for a smoother texture), ground cloves, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl before adding them to the preheated skillets. Cook the apples on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and their natural juices start to bubble and thicken. While the apples are cooking, you can simultaneously start preparing your pancake batter.
- For the batter, whisk together the milk, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract in a spacious mixing bowl until thoroughly combined and smooth. For an even quicker and smoother batter, a blender works wonders here. Then, gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and often lead to a tenderer pancake.
- Once the apples are beautifully tender and simmering in their spiced juices, carefully remove the cast iron skillets from the stovetop. Now, add the remaining coconut oil (1/4 cup per skillet) to the hot apple mixtures, spreading the apples and oil around evenly to coat the bottom and sides of the skillet. This ensures a non-stick surface and a lovely crisp edge. Gently pour your prepared batter evenly over the apples in each skillet, then carefully transfer them back into the preheated oven.
- Bake the pancakes for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges are wonderfully golden brown and puffed up, and the center is set and custard-like. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Serve these magnificent baked pancakes immediately! They are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, adorned with a generous drizzle of real maple syrup or a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Tips For Making Baked Pancakes – AKA Dutch Baby Pancakes
Mastering the Dutch baby pancake is easier than you think, and these tips will help you achieve perfect results every time:
- **Mixing Method Matters (But is Flexible):** Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of a blender, the controlled power of a hand mixer, or the classic manual touch of a whisk, the key is to ensure your batter is well combined. A smooth batter with no dry flour streaks is essential for that signature puffed-up texture. Just don’t overmix, as this can develop the gluten too much and result in a chewier pancake rather than a tender, custardy one.
- **Milk of Choice:** The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While standard dairy milk works perfectly, feel free to use your favorite milk alternative. I’ve personally achieved fantastic results with coconut milk, yielding a subtly tropical note that pairs wonderfully with the spices. Almond milk or oat milk would also be excellent choices.
- **Coconut Oil vs. Butter:** The recipe suggests coconut oil for its flavor and healthy fat profile, but don’t hesitate to use unsalted butter if that’s your preference! Butter will give the edges a richer, nuttier flavor and a slightly crisper texture – absolutely delicious! The fat is crucial for creating that beautiful non-stick surface and helping the pancake edges get wonderfully crispy.
- **Pan Size and Cook Time:** This recipe is designed to make two 10-inch cast iron frying pans, which are ideal for individual puff and presentation. Alternatively, you can use one larger 9×13 baking dish. If opting for a single, larger pancake, be mindful that the cook time may need to be slightly extended to ensure it’s cooked through and golden, possibly an extra 5-10 minutes. Always look for those puffed, golden edges as your cue.
- **Flour Consistency is Key:** For the best results, stick with all-purpose flour. Flours with a very heavy or gritty consistency, such as some whole wheat varieties, might not provide the same light and airy texture characteristic of a Dutch baby. The fine texture of all-purpose flour contributes to the pancake’s delicate, custard-like interior.
- **Beyond Apples – Endless Fruit Possibilities:** While spiced apples are undeniably heavenly, don’t limit yourself! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Experiment with other fruits like our blueberry Dutch baby pancake for a burst of berry flavor, or try sliced pears, peaches, or even mixed berries. If you’re craving something simpler, you can omit the fruit entirely and enjoy a wonderfully fragrant, vanilla-infused custard pancake. It’s a fantastic base for any topping you desire!
Baked Pancakes With Spiced Apples Recipe
These easy apple spiced baked pancakes are more than just a simple breakfast; they’re a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of fall or to make your Christmas morning truly special. The minimal effort for such an impressive and flavorful result makes them an ideal choice for busy mornings or relaxed holiday brunches. If you try this recipe and love its comforting flavors and unique texture, please show your support by giving it 5 stars and leaving a comment below! Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy this wonderful dish.
Apple Spice Baked Pancakes
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Ingredients
For the fruit
- 2 1/2 cups apples diced (about 5 small apples – we used Gala, known for their sweetness and firm texture)
- 4 Tbsp. coconut oil split between two skillets (or use unsalted butter for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 tsp. ground cloves
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
For the batter
- 1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (organic white wheat flour, organic unbleached white, einkorn, or spelt are great alternatives)
- 1/8 tsp. salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy like coconut milk for an equally delicious result)
- 4 large eggs
- 5 Tbsp. honey or pure maple syrup
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup coconut oil melted, reserved for the skillet (to be added after initial apple cooking, or use butter)
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). This high heat is essential for the characteristic puff of the Dutch baby pancake.
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For the fruit, divide 4 Tbsp of the coconut oil evenly between two 10-inch cast iron skillets. In a bowl, mix the diced apples (peeled if desired), ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Add the spiced apples to the skillets. Cook the apples on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they start to soften and their juices are bubbling gently. This step infuses the apples with incredible flavor. While the apples cook, proceed with the batter preparation.
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For the batter, combine the milk, eggs, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and smooth. Then, gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the batter is just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes tender.
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Once the apples are tender and bubbling, carefully remove the cast iron skillets from the stovetop. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil (1/4 cup per skillet) to the apple mixtures, spreading the apples and oil around evenly to coat the bottom and sides of the pan. Promptly pour your prepared pancake batter evenly into each skillet, directly over the warm apples. Immediately return both skillets to the preheated oven.
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Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges of the pancakes are beautifully golden brown and dramatically puffed, and the center is set. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
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Serve these exquisite baked pancakes hot, fresh from the oven, with a generous drizzle of real maple syrup or a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!
Notes
– Feel free to experiment with different types of milk. I’ve used coconut milk with perfect results, adding a lovely subtle flavor.
– While coconut oil is suggested for this recipe, you can absolutely substitute it with real butter if you prefer a richer, more traditional flavor profile. Yum!
– This recipe yields two 10-inch cast iron frying pans, perfect for serving. Alternatively, you can bake it in one 9×13 baking dish; just be aware that the cooking time might be slightly longer for a single large pancake.
– For the ideal light and fluffy texture, all-purpose flour is recommended. Keep in mind that flours with a very heavy or gritty consistency may alter the final result of your baked pancake.
– Get creative with your fillings! Other fruits are delicious additions. Or, if you prefer a simpler treat, omit the fruit entirely for a wonderfully vanilla-flavored, custard-like pancake.
Nutrition
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- Baked French Toast Casserole With Blackberry Maple Syrup: An effortless casserole that transforms classic French toast into an elegant, make-ahead dish, elevated by a luscious blackberry maple syrup.