Easy Skillet Upside Down Apple Pancake
by Jodi Danen, RD
Breakfast that the whole family will love in just 30 minutes? Yes! This healthy Upside Down Apple Pancake recipe is one that Registered Dietitian, Jodi Danen loves to make for her family. We do too!
I love an easy breakfast recipe. Especially one that is healthy and the kids love. Apples are just sweet enough to where the kids don’t think I am trying to get them to eat “super healthy”, and who doesn’t love a good pancake. Especially when it’s upside down! Upside down pancake?
An upside-down pancake is surprisingly simple. Just sauté apple slices in an oven-safe skillet, then pour the pancake batter right over the top. Autumn Glory Apples typically have a crisp, firm texture with dense, juicy flesh, making them great for both eating fresh and using in recipes. This variety pairs perfectly with autumn dishes like pies, crisps, and even savory meals. Once baked to golden perfection, flip it onto a plate for a breakfast that looks like it came from a café but takes less than 30 minutes.
It’s time to switch up your classic pancakes with this simple Upside Down Skillet Pancake made with fresh apples. Add a drizzle of syrup, a spoonful of yogurt, or a pile of fresh fruit for a breakfast everyone will love. My kids have even been known to sneak a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top. No judgment here.
You can never go wrong with whipping up some quick pancakes. However, it’s time to switch up your classic pancakes with this easy skillet pancake recipe. It’s easier enough to make on any weekend, but it’s pretty enough to serve during the holiday season for guests. When the holiday season rolls around, this is definitely the kind of breakfast you want to sit down with your family for.
Nutrition Tip: Apples are an especially filling fruit, ranking high on something called the “Satiety Index”. They’re even more filling than foods like bananas and yogurt!
When it comes to selecting your apples, it’s all preference. Go for green if you want to eliminate some of the sweetness. You can learn about the different types of apples here.
We also recommend using whole grain pancake mix for extra nutrients.
Why We Chose Autumn Glory Apples
Autumn Glory Apples bring that cozy fall flavor we all crave. They have a natural caramel-cinnamon sweetness that tastes like the season itself. Their firm texture holds up beautifully in the skillet, giving each bite the perfect mix of soft pancake and tender apple. Plus, they’re grown in Washington State and available all season long, which means you can make this recipe well past apple-picking season.
Whether you’re team syrup, yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream, these apples make every topping better. My kids have even been known to sneak a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. No judgment here.
Serve this Upside Down Apple Pancake with a side of eggs and turkey sausage for a protein filled breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions For Our Easy Skillet Upside Down Apple Pancake
How long does it take to make this Upside Down Apple Pancake?
This pancake takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
What type of apples are best for this Upside Down Apple Pancake recipe?
Our recipe doesn’t specify a type, so you can use your favorite baking apple.
Can I make this Upside Down Apple Pancake without an oven-safe skillet?
An oven-safe skillet is recommended for best results, but you could transfer the mixture to a baking dish if necessary.
Is this Upside Down Apple Pancake sweet?
Yes, it’s sweetened with maple syrup and the natural sweetness of the apples.
How many servings does this Upside Down Apple Pancake recipe make?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Upside Down Apple Skillet Pancake
Ingredients
- 2 medium apples peeled, sliced
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 cup whole grain complete pancake mix
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350F.
- Heat oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add apples, syrup, butter and pumpkin pie spice. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until bubbly and apples are softened.
- Whisk together pancake mix and water in separate bowl. Pour over apples.
- Place pan in oven and bake 20 minutes, or until pancake is set. Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes.
- Use a spatula to loosen pancake from skillet. Place large plate over top of skillet and flip to release pancake onto plate.
No egg or milk??
HI Amanda! We used a pancake mix that didn’t require egg or milk, but if you use a different type, be sure to adjust the recipe as needed. And then be sure to come back and let us know how you liked it 🙂
My oven is jammed up.
Can I make it stovetop ?
Hi Diana! I personally have not just made it on the stovetop, but I did a quick Google search and found this “Move the skillet back onto the heat and lower the temperature to medium-low. Allow to cook in the skillet, checking periodically to make sure the bottom isn’t burning. ” Please let us know if you tried it and how it turned out!
What size pan do you use ? 9””?
Yes…so sorry for the delay in responding! How did it turn out? I would love to hear 🙂
So damn good! I added a little brown sugar to the apples instead of the syrup to give it a little “apple pie” feel. But this is now a new staple of mine!!!
Glad to hear it Sam! We will definitely have to try that!
Hi! What would be the option without pancake mix? We dont have this where I live, at least not the whole grain one
You can use whatever pancake mix you have on hand 🙂