Walker Bros Apple Pancake Recipe: Recreating a Classic

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walker bros apple pancake recipe
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If you’ve ever been to Walker Bros. The Original Pancake House, particularly in the Northern Chicago suburbs or Portland, OR, you know the magic of their baked German apple pancake. This dish isn’t just breakfast; it’s a memorable experience, paraded from the kitchen with a dramatic puff and a tantalizing aroma. For those who’ve been longing to recreate this indulgence at home, here’s a deep dive into mastering the recipe, complete with essential tips and background.

The Origins of a Favorite

For decades, Walker Bros. has perfected the art of the apple pancake, turning it into a staple for breakfast enthusiasts. High school swim teams, families, and pancake aficionados alike have flocked to their locations to enjoy this unique dish. The pancake’s dramatic rise, rich apple topping, and perfect balance of cinnamon sweetness make it unforgettable.

What Makes the Walker Bros. Apple Pancake Special?

The secret lies in:

  • Technique: A two-step baking process ensures a perfectly puffed and tender pancake.
  • Ingredients: Using bread flour, wheat gluten, and Saigon cinnamon elevates the texture and flavor.
  • Equipment: An 8-inch non-stick skillet with sloped sides mimics the restaurant’s method.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe.

walker bros apple pancake recipe

Classic Baked German Apple Pancake Recipe

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Ingredients
  

For the batter:

  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup non-fat milk
  • 2 tbsp whipping cream
  • ¾ cup bread flour
  • 1½ tsp wheat gluten
  • 1 tbsp confectioners’ sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ⅛ tsp nutmeg

For the apples and topping:

  • 3 tbsp + 1½ tsp unsalted butter
  • 2 Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp + 2 tsp dark brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp + 1½ tsp superfine sugar
  • 2¾ tsp Saigon cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp + ⅛ tsp cornstarch

Instructions
 

Prepare the Batter:

  • Beat the eggs until foamy with an electric mixer on medium speed.
  • Add milk and cream, continuing to beat until blended.
  • Sift together the bread flour, wheat gluten, confectioners’ sugar, salt, and nutmeg in a separate bowl.
  • Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the egg mixture on low speed until well blended, about 2 minutes. Set aside for 15 minutes.

Cook the Apples:

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F.
  • Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in an 8-inch non-stick, oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the apple slices and cook, turning occasionally, until softened but not browned (about 4 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Topping:

  • Combine brown sugar, superfine sugar, Saigon cinnamon, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly.
  • Melt the remaining butter and gradually incorporate it into the sugar mixture until it forms a streusel-like consistency.

Assemble and Bake:

  • Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the skillet base.
  • Arrange the apple slices over the sugar mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
  • Pour the batter over the apples and place the skillet in the oven. Lower the temperature to 250°F and bake for 30 minutes.

Final Baking Step:

  • Remove the pancake from the oven and cover with foil to keep warm.
  • Increase oven temperature to 500°F, then reduce to 450°F just before returning the skillet to the oven.
  • Bake until the pancake puffs and edges brown slightly (12-15 minutes).
  • Serve: Carefully invert the skillet onto a platter to release the pancake. Serve warm and enjoy!

    Pro Tips for Success

    1. Use Saigon Cinnamon: The flavor intensity of Saigon cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in replicating the authentic taste.
    2. Wheat Gluten Matters: Wheat gluten contributes to the pancake’s structure and rise, so don’t skip this ingredient if possible.
    3. Timing and Temperature: The two-step baking process is crucial for achieving the right texture. Patience is key!
    4. Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firmness, balancing the sweetness of the topping.

    A Nostalgic Treat for Any Occasion

    This recipe isn’t just about recreating a dish; it’s about bringing a piece of Walker Bros. into your home. Perfect for special breakfasts, holiday mornings, or a nostalgic trip down memory lane, the Walker Bros. apple pancake is sure to impress. With these tips and the authentic recipe, you’re well on your way to mastering this classic.

    Enjoy your culinary adventure!