Baked German Pancake (Dutch Baby)

Introduction

A Baked German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a delightful and impressive breakfast or brunch dish that’s surprisingly simple to make. This puffy, oven-baked pancake is characterized by its light, airy texture, crispy edges, and a slightly custardy center. It’s typically served hot from the oven, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh fruit, syrup, or other favorite breakfast toppings. The dramatic rise of the pancake in the oven makes it a visually stunning dish, perfect for a weekend treat or a special occasion.

The first time I made a Baked German Pancake, I was captivated by the transformation that occurred in the oven. The simple batter, made with just a few basic ingredients, puffed up into a golden-brown masterpiece with towering edges. The airy texture and slightly sweet flavor were irresistible, and it quickly became a family favorite. The versatility of toppings allows everyone to customize their portion, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and the “wow” factor it brings. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. The dramatic presentation makes it a perfect dish for entertaining, and the delicious flavor guarantees satisfied smiles around the table. You can customize it by adding vanilla extract, lemon zest, or spices to the batter, or by experimenting with different toppings. No matter how you choose to serve it, a Baked German Pancake is sure to be a memorable and delicious experience.

Perfect for

• Weekend brunch
• Special breakfasts
• Holiday mornings
• Impressing guests
• Family gatherings
• Customizable toppings

Why You’ll Love This Baked German Pancake Recipe

Here’s why Baked German Pancake will become your new favorite breakfast or brunch dish:

• Impressive Presentation: The dramatic rise and golden-brown color of the pancake make it a visually stunning dish, perfect for special occasions.
• Light and Airy Texture: The pancake’s light and airy texture, combined with its crispy edges and custardy center, is a delightful sensory experience.
• Simple to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients.
• Customizable Toppings: The pancake’s mild flavor allows for a wide variety of toppings, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: This dish can be served for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories (depending on toppings)
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked German Pancake (Dutch Baby):

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Powdered sugar, for dusting
• Toppings of your choice (fresh fruit, syrup, whipped cream, lemon wedges, etc.)

Ingredient Highlights

• Eggs: Eggs are essential for providing structure and richness to the pancake, contributing to its light and airy texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour provides the necessary starch to bind the ingredients together and create the pancake’s base.
• Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps to create a smooth and pourable batter.
• Butter: Butter adds flavor and helps the pancake to brown beautifully in the oven. It also prevents the pancake from sticking to the pan.
• Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar is the traditional topping for Baked German Pancakes, adding a touch of sweetness and elegance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked German Pancake (Dutch Baby):

Prepare the Batter:

1. Preheat Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish in the oven while it preheats. This is crucial for achieving a good rise.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. The batter should be smooth but not overworked.

Bake the Pancake:

1. Melt the Butter: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter. Swirl the skillet to melt the butter evenly and coat the bottom and sides.
2. Pour in Batter: Pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet.
3. Bake: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up, golden brown, and the edges are crispy. It should rise dramatically during baking.

Serve:

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Remove the pancake from the oven and immediately dust with powdered sugar.
2. Add Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or lemon wedges.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Baked German Pancake immediately, as it will begin to deflate shortly after being removed from the oven.

How to Serve Baked German Pancake

Baked German Pancake is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of toppings:

• Fresh Fruit: Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), sliced bananas, peaches, or apples are classic and delicious toppings.
• Syrup: Maple syrup, pancake syrup, or fruit syrups are popular choices.
• Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar is a traditional and elegant topping.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of richness and indulgence.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor.
• Jam or Preserves: A spoonful of your favorite jam or preserves adds a sweet and fruity touch.
• Nutella: A smear of Nutella is a decadent and irresistible topping.
• Butter: A pat of butter adds richness and flavor.

Additional Tips for Baked German Pancake

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked German Pancake is perfect every time:

• Preheat the Pan: Preheating the skillet in the oven is crucial for achieving a good rise and crispy edges.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough pancake. Mix until just combined, and a few lumps are okay.
• Use Hot Butter: Adding the batter to a hot, buttered skillet helps the pancake to brown beautifully and prevents it from sticking.
• Don’t Open the Oven: Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the pancake to deflate.
• Serve Immediately: Baked German Pancakes are best served immediately after being removed from the oven, as they will begin to deflate shortly after.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: While some people believe room temperature ingredients are essential, it is not necessary for this recipe.

Recipe Variations for Baked German Pancake

Here are some variations you can try for Baked German Pancake:

• Vanilla Extract: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for a warm and aromatic flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright and citrusy flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for a warm and cozy flavor.
• Savory German Pancake: Omit the sugar and add a pinch of black pepper to the batter. Top with sauteed vegetables, cheese, or herbs.
• Chocolate German Pancake: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
• Berry German Pancake: Add fresh berries to the batter before baking.
• Apple German Pancake: Add sliced apples to the bottom of the skillet before pouring in the batter.
• Dutch Baby with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then place them in the bottom of the skillet before pouring in the batter.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Baked German Pancake is best served fresh and is not recommended for freezing.
• Storage: Leftover Baked German Pancake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it will lose its light and airy texture and become more dense. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Baked German Pancake

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Baked German Pancake easier:

• 10-inch Cast Iron Skillet or Oven-Safe Baking Dish: A cast iron skillet or oven-safe baking dish is essential for baking the pancake.
• Mixing Bowls: Mixing bowls are needed for preparing the batter.
• Whisk: A whisk is used for combining the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring is important for achieving the right balance of ingredients.

FAQ Section for Baked German Pancake

1. Why didn’t my pancake rise?
   The most common reason for a pancake not rising is that the skillet wasn’t hot enough or the oven wasn’t hot enough. Make sure to preheat the skillet in the oven for at least 20 minutes before pouring in the batter. Avoid opening the oven door during baking.
2. Can I use a different type of milk?
   Yes, you can use different types of milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. However, the flavor and texture of the pancake may be slightly different.
3. Can I use a different type of flour?
   While all-purpose flour is recommended, you can experiment with other flours. Gluten-free flour blends may require adjustments to the recipe.
4. Why is my pancake soggy?
   A soggy pancake can be caused by not preheating the skillet enough or by overmixing the batter. Make sure to preheat the skillet for at least 20 minutes and mix the batter until just combined.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   This recipe is best made and served immediately. The batter can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but the pancake should be baked just before serving.

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Conclusion

A Baked German Pancake (Dutch Baby) is a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Its light, airy texture, crispy edges, and customizable toppings make it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply looking for a delicious weekend treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

I’d love to see your Baked German Pancake creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram with your version—I can’t wait to see how you bring this luscious dish to life. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy cooking!