Description
This Baked German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a light, fluffy, and golden puffed pancake baked in a hot oven-safe skillet. It features a simple batter made from eggs, flour, milk, sugar, and vanilla, baked until puffed and crispy on the edges. Served warm, it is perfect for breakfast or brunch and can be topped with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, or lemon juice for added flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Batter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 10-inch oven-safe skillet, such as a cast iron skillet, inside to heat up while you prepare the batter. This ensures the pan is hot enough to create the signature puff.
- Prepare the batter. In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, all-purpose flour, milk, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Blend or whisk thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Melt the butter in the skillet. Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven (use oven mitts) and add the unsalted butter. Swirl the skillet gently to melt the butter and coat the entire bottom and sides of the pan to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter. Immediately pour the smooth batter into the skillet with the melted butter, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake the pancake. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The pancake will puff up dramatically and develop a golden brown color around the edges when ready.
- Cool and serve. Remove from the oven and let the pancake cool slightly; it will deflate a bit as it cools. Serve warm topped as desired with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
- Use a well-seasoned cast iron or oven-safe skillet for best results.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the pancake will deflate as it cools.
- Feel free to customize toppings with berries, nuts, or yogurt.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the batter to achieve optimal puffiness.
