This cinnamon apple skillet pancake is a comforting oven-baked pancake layered over caramelized apple slices. It combines warm spices, soft apples, and a fluffy pancake batter into one easy dish that feels like a cozy homemade dessert or breakfast. Despite its impressive look, it takes only a few minutes to prepare and bakes beautifully in a single skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the classic flavors of apples and cinnamon in a simple yet impressive dish. Instead of flipping individual pancakes, everything cooks in one skillet, making it perfect for relaxed mornings or gatherings.

The caramelized apples on the bottom create a naturally sweet base that pairs wonderfully with the soft, cake-like pancake layer on top. It’s warm, comforting, and fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma while baking.

Another reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a breakfast centerpiece, a brunch dish for guests, or even a dessert with a sweet topping. It’s also easy to customize with different apples, toppings, or nuts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon salt
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 medium apple, halved and cored
1 tablespoon butter, for coating the skillet

Optional toppings:

maple syrup
cinnamon sugar
powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until evenly mixed.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancake tender.
5. Grate or finely chop about one-quarter of the apple and fold it into the batter. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg and mix gently.
6. Heat a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
7. While the skillet warms, thinly slice the remaining three-quarters of the apple.
8. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the hot skillet and allow it to melt.
9. Arrange the apple slices evenly across the bottom of the skillet.
10. Pour the prepared pancake batter over the apple slices, spreading it gently so it covers the apples.
11. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Let the pancake cool for a minute before removing it from the skillet.
13. Slice into wedges and serve warm with maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, or powdered sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 wedges

Preparation time: 7 minutes
Cooking time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total time: about 20 to 22 minutes

Variations

Use different apple varieties to change the flavor profile. A mix of sweet and tart apples such as Honeycrisp and Granny Smith creates a balanced taste.

Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and nutty flavor.

For a more dessert-like version, serve the pancake warm with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

You can also replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture and added nutrition.

Another delicious variation is adding a light drizzle of caramel sauce and chopped nuts on top for a caramel apple-inspired treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pancake slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a 300°F oven for about 8 minutes for a slightly crisp edge.

This pancake also tastes good at room temperature, making it convenient for gatherings or packed breakfasts.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes. Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala work well, while tart apples like Granny Smith provide a sharper flavor. Mixing two varieties creates a balanced taste.

Do I have to use a cast-iron skillet?

No. Any oven-safe skillet or baking dish of similar size will work if you do not have a cast-iron skillet.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Use plant-based milk and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Why shouldn’t I overmix the batter?

Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can make the pancake dense and tough instead of light and tender.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Yes. You can mix the dry ingredients in advance and store them covered. Apples can also be sliced or grated and kept refrigerated overnight.

Can I freeze this pancake?

Yes. After it cools completely, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the apples from sticking?

Make sure the skillet is well coated with melted butter before adding the apple slices.

What toppings work best with this pancake?

Popular toppings include maple syrup, cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or chopped nuts.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely. You can add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a deeper autumn flavor.

How do I know when the pancake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the pancake is fully baked.

Conclusion

This cinnamon apple skillet pancake is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers the comforting flavors of apples and warm spices in every bite. With caramelized apples on the bottom and a soft pancake layer on top, it creates a delicious combination that works equally well for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again whenever you crave a cozy homemade treat.

Print