These soft and delicious pancake rolls are baked in the oven and filled with grated apples, then sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for a warm, cozy flavor. With minimal ingredients, easy prep, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, these apple pancakes are an irresistible treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Serve them as they are, or roll them up with jam and nuts for a sweet surprise.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 10–12 pancake rolls
Cuisine: European-inspired sweet bake
Ingredients
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2 eggs
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A pinch of salt
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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400 ml cold milk
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3 tbsp vegetable oil
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160 g all-purpose flour (about 1 1/4 cups)
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2 large apples, peeled and grated
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4 tsp granulated sugar
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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Optional: jam, ground walnuts for filling
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Butter or oil for greasing
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Baking paper
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, crack two whole eggs. Add a pinch of salt and the vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Gradually pour in the cold milk while continuing to whisk. Add the vegetable oil and continue mixing. Sift in the flour gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Mix until the batter is smooth and slightly runny—similar to crepe batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel the apples and grate them on the large side of a box grater. Set them aside in a bowl. The apples will be used as a topping on the pancake batter before baking, giving a soft, fruity layer.
Step 3: Assemble the Pancake Sheet
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line your oven’s largest baking tray with baking paper and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Pour the pancake batter evenly onto the prepared sheet. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out evenly across the surface.
Step 4: Add the Apple Topping
Sprinkle the grated apples evenly over the surface of the batter. Gently press them down using the back of a spoon to help them settle slightly into the batter. This helps them bake into the pancake and not fall off when slicing.
Step 5: Bake the Pancake
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pancake is fully set, lightly golden on the edges, and the apples are soft and slightly caramelized. Monitor closely toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.
Step 6: Make Cinnamon Sugar
While the pancake bakes, prepare the cinnamon sugar by mixing 4 teaspoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside for topping once baked.
Step 7: Slice and Roll
Remove the pancake from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the pancake sheet into strips—about 5 cm wide (2 inches). Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over each strip. Starting from one end, roll each strip tightly into a swirl. The rolls will hold their shape easily thanks to the soft texture.
Optional Additions:
Before rolling, you can spread each strip with a thin layer of jam (apricot, plum, or raspberry) and sprinkle with ground walnuts for extra richness. This turns the pancake rolls into a more indulgent dessert or festive treat.
Step 8: Serve
Serve warm or at room temperature. These rolls are incredibly soft, slightly chewy from the apples, and gently sweetened with aromatic cinnamon sugar. Pair them with tea, coffee, or warm milk for the perfect cozy moment.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll, without optional jam/walnuts)
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Calories: 150 kcal
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Protein: 4 g
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Fat: 6 g
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Carbohydrates: 20 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sugar: 7 g
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Sodium: Low
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Cholesterol: 40 mg
Origins and Popularity
This recipe takes inspiration from traditional baked crepe and pancake recipes often found in Central and Eastern Europe. While pancakes are usually made individually on a stove, baking the batter as a large sheet saves time and effort. The grated apple topping adds a rustic charm and natural sweetness, while the cinnamon sugar and rolling technique make these a delightful twist on classic baked apple desserts.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
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Only simple pantry ingredients needed
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Bakes in one sheet—no flipping or standing over the stove
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Soft, fluffy, and full of apple-cinnamon flavor
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Kid-friendly and great for parties or snacks
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Flexible recipe—can be adapted with nuts, jam, or other fruit
Health Benefits
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Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and natural sweetness
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Eggs and milk offer protein and healthy fats
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Cinnamon adds antioxidants and helps regulate blood sugar
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Moderately sweet—great for avoiding overly sugary snacks
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Baked, not fried—a lighter way to enjoy pancakes
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey
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Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for richness
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Pair with a fruit compote or warm berry sauce
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Enjoy cold as a portable snack or lunchbox treat
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Serve on a dessert platter with jam-filled and walnut-rolled versions
Cooking Tips
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Use cold milk to help the batter stay smooth
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Grate the apples just before use to prevent browning
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Don’t over-bake—the pancake should stay soft and pliable
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Use fine flour and sift it for the best texture
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To make gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
Variations
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Pear & ginger version: Replace apples with pears and add a pinch of ground ginger
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Chocolate drizzle: After baking, drizzle with melted dark chocolate
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Savory version: Omit sugar and vanilla, and fill with spinach and cheese
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Berry blend: Use blueberries or raspberries instead of apple for a summery twist
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Vegan version: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg substitute
Conclusion
Oven-Baked Apple Pancake Rolls with Cinnamon Sugar are one of those hidden gem recipes—easy to make, universally loved, and endlessly customizable. The method is simple but the result is pure comfort: soft, gently sweet pancakes filled with tender apples and kissed with cinnamon. Whether you serve them plain, with jam, or dressed up for dessert, these little rolls are sure to win hearts and become a family favorite.
FAQ
1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes. Cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
2. What apples work best?
Firm-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold up well and add great flavor.
3. Can I skip the sugar?
Yes. Especially if using sweet apples or adding jam later.
4. Can I bake this in a round pan?
Yes, but cutting and rolling is easiest in a rectangular or square pan.
5. Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then store in a bag. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and adjust the milk slightly if the batter thickens.
7. Is it okay to use plant-based milk?
Absolutely. Almond, soy, or oat milk all work well.
8. How long do they stay fresh?
Best eaten within 2 days. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for longer.
9. Can I add nuts to the batter?
It’s better to add them after baking, or mix into a jam layer before rolling.
10. What can I serve these with for a full brunch?
Serve with scrambled eggs, yogurt parfaits, fruit salad, and warm drinks for a complete spread.