Name: German Pancake (Dutch Baby)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 2/3 cup whole milk; 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

This German pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a light, fluffy, oven-baked pancake with crispy edges and a custardy center. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients, and it pairs perfectly with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or syrup. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a show-stopping brunch dish, this pancake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German Pancakes (Dutch Babies) are a delightful twist on traditional pancakes. With their crispy edges and custardy middle, they offer the perfect balance of textures. This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and bakes in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy mornings. The best part? It’s incredibly customizable—serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, syrup, or even whipped cream for a treat everyone will love.

Ingredients

3 large eggs
2/3 cup whole milk
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan inside to heat while you prepare the batter.
Make the Batter: In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend for 20-30 seconds until smooth. Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes.
Prepare the Skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter, swirling the skillet to coat the bottom and sides with melted butter.
Bake the Pancake: Pour the batter into the hot skillet and immediately return it to the oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the pancake is golden brown and puffed up.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pancake slightly deflate. Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, or drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 4 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Fruit Toppings: Top the pancake with fresh fruit like berries, sliced bananas, or apples for added sweetness and texture.
Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or agave for extra sweetness.
Nutty Addition: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving for a bit of crunch.
Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover with plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without a cast-iron skillet?

Yes, you can use any oven-safe pan. A regular 10-inch skillet or even a baking dish will work as long as it can handle the heat of the oven.

2. Can I make this pancake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the packaging to ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute.

3. Can I add more flavor to the pancake batter?

You can try adding a little lemon zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of almond extract to the batter for added flavor.

4. Can I use non-dairy milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk of your choice.

5. How do I keep the pancake from deflating too much?

The pancake will naturally deflate slightly once out of the oven, but it should still maintain a nice puff. Be sure to avoid overbaking, as this can cause excessive deflation.

6. Can I make this pancake ahead of time?

It’s best to serve it immediately after baking to enjoy its puffed-up texture, but you can reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.

7. Can I make this recipe without a blender?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients by hand using a whisk, but a blender helps ensure a smooth batter for the best texture.

8. Can I add chocolate chips to the pancake batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mini chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a sweet, chocolatey twist.

9. How can I make this pancake fluffier?

Make sure to follow the instructions for resting the batter, and avoid overmixing. The blender should help create a smooth, airy batter that bakes up light and fluffy.

10. Can I serve this with whipped cream?

Yes! Whipped cream pairs wonderfully with this pancake, especially when topped with fruit for a delicious, decadent breakfast.

Conclusion

German Pancake (Dutch Baby) is a simple yet impressive breakfast or brunch option that combines the lightness of pancakes with the richness of a baked custard. The crispy edges and tender center create the perfect balance, while the ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for any occasion. Serve with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this delightful dish that everyone will love!