Name: Dutch Baby Pancakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: ½ cup all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs, room temperature; ½ cup whole milk, room temperature; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ tablespoon vanilla; 1 tablespoon sugar; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks; To serve: Sliced fruit, powdered sugar, and/or maple syrup

Jump to Recipe

Growing up, Sunday mornings were a cherished time in our household. The aroma of fresh coffee mingling with something sweet wafting through the air was a sure sign that a delightful breakfast was on its way. That’s when my mom would whip up her famous Dutch Baby Pancakes – the show-stopping dish that never failed to impress. As a child, I was mesmerized watching the pancake puff up in the oven, transforming into a golden, airy masterpiece.

Fast forward to today, and I find myself eager to recreate those memory-filled mornings. Dutch Baby Pancakes might seem intimidating to make, but trust me – they’re as simple as they are delicious. With minimal ingredients and a few tips, this pancake will wow your family as it did mine years ago. And the best part? You can top it with whatever your heart desires – fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup!

Why You’ll Love Dutch Baby Pancakes

So, what’s so special about Dutch Baby Pancakes? The combination of fluffy texture, rich flavor, and the sheer spectacle of baking in a cast iron skillet sets this pancake apart from the standard flat varieties. This pancake actually puffs up dramatically while baking, creating a dramatic presentation that’s sure to impress.

But there’s even more! These pancakes are incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer sweet toppings like sliced apples, juicy blueberries, or zesty lemon, or savory options like fresh herbs, you can customize the flavors to suit any palate. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it easy to incorporate seasonal fruits or whatever you have on hand.

Getting Started: Important Tips

Before you roll up your sleeves and head into the kitchen, there are a few essential steps to ensure your Dutch Baby Pancakes come out perfectly every time. First, make sure to use a 10-inch well-seasoned cast iron skillet or another oven-safe skillet. The size here is crucial—the skillet needs to be hot enough to achieve that magical puff when the batter hits the hot surface.

Another pro tip? Let your eggs and milk sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before mixing. This simple step makes all the difference in achieving that light and airy texture we crave in a pancake. And, a quick note on blending: while it may tempt you to toss all your ingredients in the blender initially, it’s best to combine them by hand before giving them a quick blend. This method guarantees a lump-free batter every time.

Let’s Make Dutch Baby Pancakes!

Now that you have the tips down, let’s dive into making these fluffy pancakes!

Yield: Serves 4

Dutch Baby Pancakes

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

½ cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup whole milk, room temperature
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ tablespoon vanilla
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks
To serve: Sliced fruit, powdered sugar, and/or maple syrup

Instructions

Place top oven rack just above the center position and pre-heat your oven to 425°F.

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, sugar, and salt, stirring until just combined. Pour this mixture into your blender and blend until the batter is aerated and no clumps remain, about 1 minute.

Use the butter to thoroughly grease the exposed surface of your skillet, then place it in the hot oven just until the butter is melted. Remove it from the oven and carefully swirl it to ensure it’s evenly distributed across the bottom.

Pour the blended batter into the center of the hot skillet and return the skillet to the oven. Bake until the edges are puffed up and golden brown—about 20 minutes. Be sure to check around the 16-17 minute mark and adjust the cooking time based on your oven’s specifics.

Turn off the oven and let the skillet sit inside for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve immediately topped with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

When it comes to toppings, the sky’s the limit! Freshly sliced apples or a handful of blueberries can add sweetness and tartness, while a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavor. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, a sprinkle of crispy pancetta or bacon can elevate this dish into a savory treat.

If you want to cut down on the sugar in the batter, especially when using savory toppings, feel free to adjust accordingly. These pancakes can effortlessly shift between sweet and savory worlds!

Health Benefits

In addition to being a delicious family favorite, Dutch Baby Pancakes offer several health benefits thanks to their ingredient composition. Eggs provide a great source of protein, while whole milk contributes calcium and Vitamin D—essential for strong bones. If you decide to serve this with fresh fruits, you’re adding vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can promote overall health.

Final Thoughts

Making Dutch Baby Pancakes is not just about preparing breakfast; it’s about creating memories and sharing time with loved ones. As you watch the magic unfold in the oven, take a moment to savor the anticipation and enjoy the simple pleasure this dish brings. Have you tried making this recipe? I’d love to hear your experiences and any tips you’ve discovered along the way!

Happy cooking!