If you’re craving a breakfast treat that’s both impressive and absolutely delicious, this Baked German Pancake Recipe is a total game-changer. Picture a fluffy, puffed pancake with golden brown edges baked to perfection, lightly sweetened and ready to be dressed up with your favorite toppings. This dish is simple to whip up but tastes like you spent hours mastering it. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend morning or when you want to surprise your loved ones with something special yet effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked German Pancake Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role. Every element works together to give you that perfect texture and subtle sweetness, resulting in a breakfast delight that’s light, fluffy, and irresistible.
- 3 large eggs: The stars that create structure and richness for a puffed texture.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect balance to make the pancake tender yet firm enough to hold its shape.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, essential for that soft crumb.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to enhance the flavor without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the other flavors, keeping everything balanced.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma and depth to the pancake.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For browning and adding a luscious buttery flavor as it melts in the pan.
- Powdered sugar and fresh lemon wedges (optional): Classic finishing touches that brighten and add a delicate sweetness.
How to Make Baked German Pancake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pop your butter into a 9-inch cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish and let it melt in the oven as it heats. This step is crucial because the sizzling butter will help create that signature crisp edge and rich buttery taste your Baked German Pancake Recipe is known for.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
While the oven and butter work their magic, combine eggs, flour, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract either in a blender or a mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until the batter is silky smooth and well combined. A lump-free batter ensures your pancake rises beautifully and bakes evenly.
Step 3: Pour Batter and Bake
Carefully remove the hot skillet with melted butter from the oven and gently swirl the butter around to coat the entire pan. This sizzling base is what will give your pancake that unforgettable flavor and texture. Immediately pour the batter into the pan—don’t wait, or the butter will cool and won’t coat properly. Bake your pancake for 18–22 minutes until it’s puffed up and a gorgeous golden brown around the edges.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Once out of the oven, your Baked German Pancake Recipe will look stunningly puffed but expect it to deflate a bit—that’s totally normal. Now is the time to add your favorite toppings like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some fresh lemon wedges to cut through the richness. Serve while warm and enjoy the delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
How to Serve Baked German Pancake Recipe
Garnishes
Powdered sugar and lemon wedges are classic partners for this pancake, adding a pale snowfall of sweetness and a zesty burst that make each bite memorable. You can also add fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for different flavor twists.
Side Dishes
This pancake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or even a light yogurt to balance the rich, buttery pancake. These options add freshness and texture contrast, rounding out your breakfast beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch experience, flip this Baked German Pancake Recipe onto a large platter and decorate with colorfully arranged fruits, a sprinkle of nuts, or a swirl of fruit compote. You could even slice it into wedges and serve with small ramekins of your favorite syrups and spreads for everyone to customize.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them uncovered in the refrigerator for up to two days to keep the edges crisp. Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container for best results.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Cool it completely, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Enjoy these quick breakfast treats by thawing overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat your pancake slices in a hot skillet or oven to restore some of their crispness. Microwaving works too, but you may lose that delightful puffed texture. A quick toast under the broiler also brings back the beautiful golden edges.
FAQs
Can I use a regular baking dish instead of a cast iron skillet?
Absolutely! Just be sure it’s oven-safe and 9-inches in diameter. The cast iron skillet adds a nice crispiness because it holds heat really well, but a metal or ceramic dish will work just fine.
Why does my pancake deflate after baking?
This is completely normal for a Baked German Pancake Recipe. The batter puffs up in the oven due to steam and air expanding, but as it cools, it naturally deflates. Don’t worry—the flavor and texture remain incredible!
Can I add fruit to the batter before baking?
Adding fruit directly to the batter can weigh it down and prevent it from puffing properly. It’s better to add fruit as a topping after baking or serve alongside.
Is there a gluten-free version of this pancake?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that measures cup-for-cup and includes xanthan gum for structure.
Can I double this recipe for a bigger group?
Definitely. For a larger batch, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time slightly and keep an eye on the edges for that perfect golden color.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing the Baked German Pancake Recipe. It’s an elegant yet effortless dish that turns ordinary ingredients into a memorable experience. Whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy morning or impressing friends at brunch, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to keep coming back to. Give it a try and watch the magic happen!
Print
Baked German Pancake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a puffed, golden-brown delight perfect for breakfast. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, flour, and milk, it bakes in a cast iron skillet until it rises beautifully. Topped with powdered sugar and fresh lemon wedges, this easy and impressive recipe can also be garnished with berries or whipped cream for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Baking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Serving (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat and Melt Butter: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the butter in a 9-inch cast iron skillet or any oven-safe baking dish, then put it in the oven while it preheats to melt the butter thoroughly.
- Prepare the Batter: In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, all-purpose flour, whole milk, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Blend or whisk the mixture until it is completely smooth and well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Coat the Pan with Butter: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Swirl the melted butter around the sides and bottom of the pan to coat it evenly. This butter coating helps create the crispy edges of the pancake.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Immediately pour the prepared batter into the hot, butter-coated skillet. Place it back in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pancake puffs up dramatically and the edges turn a golden brown color.
- Serve: Remove the pancake from the oven carefully. It will deflate slightly as it cools, which is normal. Serve immediately, topped with powdered sugar and fresh lemon wedges, or add your favorite fruits and syrups for extra flavor.
Notes
- The pancake will deflate slightly after baking; this is a normal characteristic of this dish.
- You can double the recipe to serve more people by using a larger 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Try adding berries, sautéed apples, or whipped cream as toppings to enhance the flavor.
