Ah, the Baked German Pancake—also known as a Dutch Baby! Whenever I whip this up, it feels like a warm hug on a plate, and trust me, your breakfast guests will be saying “Wow!” rather than just “Mmm,” when they see this beauty. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; I was at a friend’s brunch. They pulled a golden, puffed pancake out of the oven, and I couldn’t help but stare in awe. After just one bite, I was hooked. Its light and fluffy texture is simply unforgettable!
What makes this pancake so special is not just how incredibly easy it is to prepare but also how impressive it looks when it bakes up—like a soufflé and pancake had a delicious love child! Whether I’m having a lazy Sunday or hosting a fun brunch for friends, this recipe always hits the spot.
What’s in Baked German Pancake?
Let’s talk ingredients! Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect fluffiness and flavor.
Eggs: The star of the show! Eggs provide structure while giving the pancake that lift we all love. I always use large, fresh eggs for the best results.
Milk: This creamy goodness adds moisture to the batter. Whole milk is my go-to, but you can use any milk you have on hand.
Flour: Regular all-purpose flour works just fine here, giving the pancake structure without weighing it down.
Sugar: Just a bit of sugar enhances the flavor. Don’t worry, it’s a subtle sweetness that compliments the other ingredients perfectly.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances out the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
When you mix these together, magic happens. Each ingredient plays off the other, making it the perfect batter to support that delightful puffiness when it bakes!
Is Baked German Pancake Good for You?
Now, you might be wondering, is this treat healthy? Well, like most things in life, it’s all about balance!
Eggs: These powerhouses are packed with protein and healthy fats, perfect for keeping you full till lunch.
Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for strong bones.
Flour: While it’s not a whole grain, its carbohydrates give you energy to kickstart your day.
Sugar: Yes, it adds sweetness, but I like to keep it to a minimum. If you’re looking to cut back, feel free to reduce the sugar or try a natural sweetener!
Overall, while you won’t be calling this a “health food,” it can certainly be part of a balanced breakfast. Just enjoy it in moderation!
Ingredients for Baked German Pancake
This recipe serves about 4 people, so it’s perfect for a small brunch gathering!
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (whole or your preference)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
How to Make Baked German Pancake?
Ready to impress? Let’s get baking!
1. **Preheat your oven** to 425°F (220°C). Make sure it’s nice and hot for that perfect puff!
2. **Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish** with the butter and place it in the oven while it’s heating up. You want the butter to melt and the dish to be hot.
3. In a large mixing bowl, **whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, sugar, and salt** until smooth. I often use an electric mixer for this to make it super easy, but a whisk will do just fine.
4. Once the oven is hot and the butter is melted, **carefully remove the pan (use oven mitts!)** and pour the batter into the hot, greased dish.
5. **Bake in the oven** for about 20-25 minutes until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown. It’ll look like a delightful fluffy cloud of deliciousness!
6. When done, **remove from the oven** and let it cool for a minute. It will deflate slightly—that’s perfectly normal!
7. **Serve warm!** Top with butter and powdered sugar, or go wild with fresh fruits, maple syrup, or any dreamy toppings you love.
Delicious Tips for Serving Up Baked German Pancake
Oh, I just love to get creative with this pancake! You can easily customize it to fit your tastes.
– Try adding a splash of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the batter for extra flavor!
– For a fruit topping, how about some sautéed apples or berries tossed with a little sugar and served warm?
– If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of Nutella or a dollop of whipped cream always elevates breakfast to a whole new level.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It has become a staple in my breakfast lineup, and I promise that it will impress not only you but also family and friends. Once you take that first delightful bite, you might find yourself daydreaming about your next brunch! Let me know how it goes, and don’t forget to share your topping creations!
