Baked German Pancake – Puffy, Golden, and Surprisingly Simple

Baked German Pancake – Puffy, Golden, and Surprisingly Simple

Golden edges, custardy center, and dramatic puff—Baked German Pancakes (also called Dutch Babies) are a brunch showstopper that couldn’t be easier to make. With just a handful of ingredients, this oven-baked pancake rises into a beautifully crisp-edged cloud that’s as fun to serve as it is to eat. Perfect for slow weekends, special breakfasts, or even dessert, it’s endlessly customizable and always impressive.

Your Next Breakfast Obsession

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple staples come together most magically. Eggs, flour, milk, and butter form the base of this sky-high pancake. With just a touch of sugar and vanilla, it’s subtly sweet and endlessly versatile for your favorite toppings.

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp butter (for the pan)

Optional toppings:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries
  • Maple syrup or lemon juice

Nutritional Value at a Glance

This pancake feels indulgent but keeps things light. Thanks to the eggs, it’s packed with protein and naturally low in sugar. You can enjoy it as a guilt-free treat or power breakfast depending on your toppings.

  • Calories: ~250 per serving (without toppings)
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbs: 28g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Fiber: <1g

Timing Details

Fast enough for a weekday but special enough for Sunday brunch. With only 5 minutes of prep and under 25 minutes total, this pancake goes from blender to oven to table with almost no effort. It’s perfect for lazy mornings and last-minute guests.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Make It – Simple Steps

This is a no-fuss, all-reward kind of recipe. Blend the batter, heat the pan, and let the oven do all the work. Watch it rise into a golden, puffy wonder that’s soft inside and crispy on the edges.

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a cast iron skillet (10–12 inch) in the oven while it heats.
  2. In a blender, combine eggs, flour, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth (about 20–30 seconds).
  3. Once the oven is hot, carefully remove the skillet. Add butter and swirl until melted.
  4. Pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet. Immediately return it to the oven.
  5. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until puffed and golden brown. Don’t open the oven door while baking!
  6. Remove from oven, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with fresh fruit or syrup.

Easy Swaps & Variations

This pancake is a blank canvas for your creativity. Keep it classic or add your favorite flavors, fruits, or toppings. From dairy-free tweaks to sweet and savory spins, it’s easy to make this recipe your own.

  • Use almond or oat milk for dairy-free
  • Add cinnamon or lemon zest to the batter
  • Make it savory with herbs and grated cheese
  • Top with sautéed apples or pears in fall
  • Use a muffin tin to make individual minis
  • Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein

Serving Ideas for Every Occasion

Whether it’s breakfast in bed or brunch with friends, this dish delivers. Dress it up with berries and cream, or keep it simple with lemon and sugar. However you serve it, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

  • Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries
  • Drizzle with lemon juice and powdered sugar
  • Add roasted nuts or nut butter for richness
  • Use as a base for ice cream or compote
  • Pair with coffee or mimosas for a brunch treat

Storing & Reheating Tips

While best fresh from the oven, leftovers still shine. Store it easily and bring it back to life with a quick warm-up. It’s great for meal prep, easy snacks, or next-day breakfasts with zero stress.

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness
  • Microwave briefly for a softer texture
  • Serve cold with yogurt or fresh fruit for a quick breakfast

Tips for Puffy, Golden Perfection

A few smart moves make all the difference here. Use room temp ingredients, preheat your pan, and blend the batter well. Follow these simple tricks, and your pancake will rise to golden, airy perfection every time.

  • Use room temperature eggs and milk for better puff
  • Blend the batter for a full 30 seconds—smoothness matters
  • Preheat the skillet thoroughly for even rising
  • Don’t open the oven door during baking
  • Serve immediately—it deflates quickly after coming out

Light, Fluffy & Unforgettably Delicious

A Baked German Pancake is the kind of dish that feels special every time. It’s big on texture, naturally beautiful, and wildly easy to throw together with ingredients you already have. Dress it up or down, serve it sweet or savory—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Bookmark this one, and bring that irresistible oven-puffed magic to your next breakfast table.

FAQs

A German pancake, also called a Dutch baby, is a large, oven-baked pancake made with eggs, flour, and milk. It puffs up dramatically in the oven and settles as it cools.

A cast iron skillet works best for even heat and dramatic puff, but any oven-safe skillet or baking dish (9–10 inches) will do.

Yes. Use plant-based milk like almond or oat and a dairy-free butter substitute. The texture may vary slightly, but it still works well.

Common reasons include: the oven wasn’t hot enough, the batter wasn’t blended properly, or the pan wasn’t preheated. Be sure your oven is fully preheated and your batter is smooth.

It’s best to make the batter fresh, but you can mix it 30–60 minutes in advance. Let it rest at room temperature for a better rise.