Are you looking for a breakfast dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious? Look no further than the Cinnamon-Apple Dutch Baby! This oven-baked pancake is a show-stopping treat that combines the flavors of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and fluffy pancake batter to create a dish that’s perfect for any morning occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch with friends or simply treating yourself to a special breakfast at home, this Cinnamon-Apple Dutch Baby is sure to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the delightful details of how to make this heavenly breakfast dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-size Golden Delicious apples (about 10 oz.), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon table salt, divided
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 6 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (about 6 3/8 oz.) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup (4 oz.) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet in the oven to preheat.
- In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with vegetable oil, ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of table salt until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
- Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven and add the seasoned apple slices to the hot skillet.
- Return the skillet to the oven and roast the apples for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and remaining ¼ teaspoon of table salt to the wet ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
Step 4: Bake the Dutch Baby
- Carefully pour the melted butter into the preheated skillet, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Pour the prepared pancake batter over the melted butter in the skillet. Arrange the roasted apple slices on top of the batter.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Return the skillet to the oven and bake the Dutch Baby for 18-20 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the Dutch Baby from the oven and dust it with powdered sugar.
- Slice the Dutch Baby into wedges and serve immediately, garnished with additional powdered sugar if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Additional Toppings: Serve your Cinnamon-Apple Dutch Baby with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the roasted apples before pouring the pancake batter for a nutty twist.
- Seasonal Variations: Experiment with different types of apples and spices to create seasonal variations of this Dutch Baby. Try using Granny Smith apples and nutmeg for a fall-inspired version, or Fuji apples and cardamom for a winter twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative.
- Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar.
- Serve with a keto-friendly whipped cream made with heavy cream and sweetener.
Low-Carb Version:
- Opt for low-carb apples such as Granny Smith or Pink Lady, which have fewer natural sugars.
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a gluten-free, low-carb option.
- Use a sugar-free pancake syrup or a sprinkle of powdered erythritol instead of granulated sugar for serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of skillet? A: While a cast-iron skillet is traditional for making Dutch Babies, you can also use a heavy-bottomed oven-safe skillet or a baking dish of similar size.
Q: Can I prepare the batter ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the pancake batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using. Simply whisk it again before pouring it into the hot skillet.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free milk alternatives such as almond milk or coconut milk, and substitute vegan butter for the unsalted butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
Q: Can I reheat leftovers? A: Yes, you can reheat leftover slices of Dutch Baby in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
In conclusion, the Cinnamon-Apple Dutch Baby is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a fluffy pancake batter for a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with your family, this Dutch Baby is sure to impress. With its golden-brown edges, tender apple slices, and light dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. So whip up a batch of this heavenly breakfast dish and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
