Baked German Pancake Recipe
If you have ever wanted a breakfast dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly impressive, the Baked German Pancake Recipe is exactly what you need. This golden, puffed delight combines the lightness of a souffle with the heartiness of a pancake, creating an alluring centerpiece for any morning gathering. The combination of simple pantry staples transforms into a spectacular dish that’s perfectly crispy on the edges and tender in the middle. Trust me, once you try this Baked German Pancake Recipe, it will become one of your favorite weekend brunch treats to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step in creating a wonderfully balanced dish. Each element plays a critical role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and color of the pancake.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, making the pancake fluffy and light.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives the pancake its slight chew and helps it rise.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to keep the pancake tender.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to enhance flavor and help with browning.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic hint that complements the buttery notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and strengthens the batter’s structure.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into the pan, creating crispy, golden edges and a rich flavor.
- Optional toppings: Powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, and lemon wedges provide endless flavor possibilities.
How to Make Baked German Pancake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to a hot 425°F. Place the butter in a 9-inch cast iron skillet or any oven-safe dish and pop it into the oven. This step lets the butter melt and become perfectly hot, which is key to nailing those crispy, golden edges we all love about the Baked German Pancake Recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
While the butter melts, combine eggs, flour, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a blender or a mixing bowl. Whisk or blend the ingredients until the batter is silky smooth and free of lumps. This harmonious mixture is what will give your pancake its dramatic puff and gentle crumb.
Step 3: Pour Batter into Hot Pan
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven — it’s extremely hot, so use oven mitts! Swirl the melted butter around the pan so every part of the bottom gets coated. Immediately pour the batter into this sizzling butter and watch the magic begin as the edges start to cook and caramelize.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the skillet on the center rack and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know the pancake is done when it’s puffed dramatically and the edges have turned a beautiful golden brown. This rising is one of the most impressive parts of the Baked German Pancake Recipe and guarantees an eye-catching presentation.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Remove the pancake from the oven and serve without delay. It will deflate quickly as it cools, but its flavor and texture are unbeatable right off the heat. Don’t be shy—top it with powdered sugar, fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a squeeze of lemon to elevate every bite.
How to Serve Baked German Pancake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevating this dish is easy and fun! A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and pretty finish. Fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries bring a bright pop of color and juicy tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery pancake. For a classic touch, drizzle pure maple syrup over the top or squeeze some fresh lemon for a light, zingy lift.
Side Dishes
The Baked German Pancake Recipe shines as a main event, but pairing it with perfectly crisp bacon or sausage can add a savory balance. Fresh fruit salad or a yogurt parfait pairs wonderfully to add freshness and texture variety without overwhelming the pancake’s delicate flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond just plating! You can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan to serve a crowd, slicing it into squares for easy sharing. Try placing it on a wooden board surrounded by various toppings, so everyone can customize their own bites. Fold in a handful of fresh herbs or citrus zest into the batter for unexpected bursts of flavor that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover German pancake is best stored tightly covered in the refrigerator and eaten within a day or two. While it won’t retain its puffiness, the flavors remain luscious and it can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pancake slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to a month. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to revive your Baked German Pancake Recipe leftovers is gently in a 350°F oven for about 5-8 minutes. This warms it through while restoring a touch of crispiness to the edges, much better than microwaving, which can make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a regular baking dish instead of a cast iron skillet?
Absolutely! Oven-safe glass or ceramic baking dishes work just as well. Just keep in mind that a cast iron skillet often gives the best crispy edges due to even heat distribution.
Why does my baked German pancake deflate after baking?
It’s completely normal for this type of pancake to puff up beautifully and then gently collapse after removal from the oven. The puffiness comes from steam and air trapped in the batter, which escapes as it cools.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While you can prepare the batter in advance, it’s best to bake it right away for optimal rise and texture. If you must store it, keep the batter refrigerated and give it a gentle stir before pouring into the pan.
What toppings are traditional for a baked German pancake?
Traditional toppings include powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and maple syrup. However, feel free to get creative with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even nuts to suit your taste.
Is the Baked German Pancake Recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Baked German Pancake Recipe; it transforms humble ingredients into a spectacular, crowd-pleasing dish with minimal effort. Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a festive brunch, this pancake brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of magic to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own, as it’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to time and again, delighting friends and family every time.
Print
Baked German Pancake Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a fluffy and golden oven pancake perfect for a delicious breakfast. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, flour, and milk, it bakes to a puffed, crispy-edge delight that pairs wonderfully with powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, or lemon wedges.
Ingredients
For the Pancake:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Maple syrup
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven 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 and put it in the oven as it heats up to melt the butter evenly.
- Prepare the Batter: While the oven preheats, combine the eggs, all-purpose flour, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a blender or mixing bowl. Blend or whisk these ingredients until the batter is smooth and fully combined with no lumps.
- Coat the Skillet with Butter: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven—use oven mitts as it will be very hot. Swirl the skillet to ensure the melted butter evenly coats the bottom and sides of the pan. This helps the pancake cook evenly and adds flavor.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the prepared batter into the hot, butter-coated skillet. Immediately place it back in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Bake until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the pancake from the oven and serve it immediately for the best texture and puff. Add your favorite toppings such as powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, or a squeeze of lemon wedge.
Notes
- The pancake will deflate shortly after baking—this is a normal characteristic of a German pancake.
- For the best experience, serve the pancake hot right out of the oven for its signature puff.
- You can double the recipe and bake it in a larger 9×13 inch pan if serving more people.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
