Danish Apple Pancake with Cinnamon Sugar
DanishBrunch

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

This Danish Apple Pancake, known as Æbleskiver-inspired sheet pancake, brings the beloved flavors of Denmark to your brunch table. Unlike individual æbleskiver balls, this simplified version bakes in one pan, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Sweet-tart apples are caramelized with butter and sugar, then topped with a light, eggy batter that puffs up beautifully in the oven. The result is a golden pancake with crispy edges and a custardy center, studded with tender apple pieces. Finished with a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, this dish embodies Danish hygge - that cozy, comfortable feeling of contentment. Traditionally served with strong coffee and good company, it is ideal for any occasion from casual family breakfasts to special holiday brunches.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 12-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan inside to heat.

  2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick wedges.

  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Let the batter rest while you prepare the apples.

  4. In a small bowl, combine remaining sugar with cinnamon for topping and set aside.

  5. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add butter, swirling to coat the bottom and sides.

  6. Arrange apple slices in the melted butter in a single layer, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

  7. Return skillet to oven for 5 minutes to caramelize the apples.

  8. Remove skillet and immediately pour the batter over the apples, spreading evenly.

  9. Return to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.

  10. Remove from oven and dust generously with remaining cinnamon sugar.

  11. Cut into wedges and serve immediately while still warm and puffy.

Danish Apple Pancake with Cinnamon Sugar

3.8 (92)

A traditional Danish brunch favorite featuring fluffy oven-baked pancakes with caramelized apples, dusted with cinnamon sugar. This one-pot wonder is perfect for lazy weekend mornings and feeds the whole family.

easy
40 min
6 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 3 pieces apple, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 4 pieces eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cups milk, whole milk preferred
  • 3/4 cups flour, all-purpose
  • 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted

Spices

  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground

Flavorings

  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract

Seasonings

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best results, use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
The pancake will deflate slightly as it cools, which is normal - serve it immediately for maximum drama.
You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator.
For a more traditional Danish touch, serve with lingonberry jam or a dollop of crème fraîche.
If you do not have a cast iron skillet, any oven-safe pan will work, though cast iron gives the best caramelization.
For added richness, brown the butter before adding the apples.
This recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings - just use a larger pan and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes.