Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake recipe because it’s like your favorite pancake and apple pie had a cozy, delicious baby. When you bake it, the kitchen fills with the warm scent of cinnamon and sweet apples, which honestly feels like a hug in food form. It’s perfect for those weekend mornings when you want something comforting but hands-off, since it bakes while you sip your coffee.

When I first tried this Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake recipe, I was surprised by how easy it was to get those fluffy, tender pancake vibes without flipping a single one. You’ll find that it’s a straightforward recipe with just the right balance of sweet and spice that both kids and adults adore. Plus, it makes for great leftovers or a quick breakfast you can reheat in a snap.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake recipe comes from simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably have on hand. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of tender pancake fluffiness and irresistibly soft apples.

• Butter or vegan butter: For cooking the apples and adding a rich flavor; I love using Earth Balance for a dairy-free version.
• Apples: I prefer sweet-tart varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp—they hold up well and add a fresh brightness.
• Brown sugar: Adds just the right caramel sweetness to the apples and batter topping.
• Cinnamon: The soul of this recipe; it brings that signature cozy spice you expect in apple desserts.
• Eggs: Help create the custard-like texture in this bake, binding everything perfectly.
• Almond milk or regular milk: I often go dairy-free with almond milk, but any milk will work.
• Flour: Whether you use all-purpose, whole wheat, spelt, or gluten-free blend, this recipe is forgiving.
• Baking powder: Gives the batter a gentle lift so your pancake bake puffs right up.
• Powdered sugar (optional): A light dusting adds an elegant finishing touch and a bit of extra sweetness.

Variations

I like to play around with this recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand. It’s a fantastic base that welcomes a lot of tasty twists without losing its classic charm.

• Adding nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking adds a lovely crunch my family loves.
• Using different fruit: Pears or peaches can be swapped in when apples aren’t in season, giving it a fresh spin.
• Spice it up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon deepens the flavor beautifully.
• Make it vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use your favorite plant-based milk and butter for an allergy-friendly version.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Apples

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with half of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Cook, stirring gently, just until the apples start to soften—about 5 minutes. This step helps the apples become tender and sweet without turning to mush, which I learned after a few overcooked batches!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

While the apples are softening, whisk together the eggs and almond (or regular) milk until smooth and a bit frothy. Then, combine the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl before stirring it into the wet mixture. Make sure to mix just until combined — over-mixing can make the bake dense, which is something I used to do before I realized how delicate this batter should be.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the egg and flour batter evenly over the cooked apples in your skillet or a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top—this creates a wonderfully caramelized finish. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the bake puffs up and looks golden. The rise is what makes it feel like a fluffy pancake casserole, which is honestly the best part.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

After you take the bake out, I love dusting a little powdered sugar over the top for that extra touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear fast—especially in my house!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle some powdered sugar just before serving, but a drizzle of maple syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream really elevates this bake to breakfast-dessert status. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a nice tang contrast that my family enjoys, especially on chilly mornings.

Side Dishes

This Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake holds its own, but I often serve it alongside crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai also pairs beautifully, making it feel like a complete morning treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday mornings or brunch, I like to bake this recipe in individual ramekins for a fancy touch. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a cinnamon stick garnish to each serving. It makes a fun centerpiece when you have guests over, and everyone loves its rustic charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and I often find it’s even better the next day when the flavors have melded together nicely.

Freezing

If I want to freeze portions, I cut the bake into squares and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, they last up to 2 months and are a lifesaver for busy mornings.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm them in a low oven until heated through to keep the texture soft but not soggy. Avoid overheating to maintain that tender pancake texture we love.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Pancake Bake recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the best of fall flavors with that effortless pancake comfort we all crave. I hope you try it soon and experience the same smile it brings me every time it comes out of the oven. Trust me, once you taste that warm apple and cinnamon goodness paired with fluffy batter, it’ll become a go-to in your recipe box just like it is in mine.

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