in

German Pancake

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Golden, puffy, and just the right amount of crisp around the edges, a German Pancake is breakfast magic straight from the oven. It rises dramatically in the oven, forming fluffy peaks and tender valleys that are perfect for catching pools of syrup, butter, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Often called a Dutch Baby, this skillet-baked treat is as visually stunning as it is easy to make.

Whether you’re making a cozy weekend brunch or looking to impress overnight guests, German Pancakes deliver big rewards for minimal effort. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a breakfast that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Top it with fresh berries, lemon curd, or even savory options like ham and cheese for your own signature twist.


What Kind of Pan Should I Use?

The most iconic way to make a German Pancake is in a cast iron skillet. The heavy pan conducts heat evenly and gives the pancake that signature puff and golden brown edges. If you don’t have cast iron, any oven-safe skillet or even a metal pie dish will still yield great results.


Ingredients for the German Pancake

Eggs
Essential for structure and rise, eggs act as the leavening agent in this puffed pancake. They help create that airy, souffle-like texture that makes it stand out.

Milk
Whole milk is preferred for richness, but any milk you have on hand will work. It thins the batter just enough to achieve the right consistency.

All-Purpose Flour
This creates the pancake’s body. The flour binds with the eggs and milk to form a smooth, pourable batter.

Butter
Melted in the pan before the batter is poured in, butter adds flavor and helps create the pancake’s crispy, golden base.

Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. Just a splash enhances the pancake’s aroma beautifully.

Salt
A pinch balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.

Powdered Sugar and Fresh Berries (Optional)
These are finishing touches that elevate the presentation and add fresh, bright flavor to every bite.

Pin this Recipe

How To Make the German Pancake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10- or 12-inch cast iron skillet inside while it heats. This step is crucial to achieving that signature puff.

Step 2: Blend the Batter

In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Let it rest while the oven finishes heating.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the butter. Swirl the pan until the butter is fully melted and covers the bottom and sides.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Quickly pour the batter into the skillet over the melted butter. Immediately return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed and golden brown around the edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, the pancake will begin to deflate slightly—this is normal. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries, syrup, or your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.


How to Serve and Store Your German Pancake

German Pancakes are best served fresh and hot from the oven. The texture is at its peak right after baking, with the crisp edges and custard-like center. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to bring back a bit of crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the pancake to puff properly?

Make sure your skillet is preheated and your batter is blended until smooth. A hot pan is essential for the dramatic rise.

Can I make this with almond or oat milk?

Yes, though the pancake may not puff quite as much. It will still taste delicious!

What toppings work best?

Berries, maple syrup, lemon juice with powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream are all excellent choices.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baking.

Why did mine come out dense?

It could be due to under-blending the batter or pouring it into a skillet that wasn’t hot enough.

Do I need to use a blender?

A blender creates a smoother batter, but a whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick in a pinch.


Want More Breakfast Ideas?

If you loved this German Pancake, you might also enjoy these other cozy breakfast dishes:


Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with berries or lemon? Or did you try something totally different like Nutella and bananas?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.


Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

German Pancake


  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 36 minute
  • Yield: 2-4 servings

Description

A German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby, is a light, oven-baked pancake with crispy edges and a custardy center. It puffs up dramatically in the oven, making it as fun to watch as it is to eat. This simple breakfast is made with pantry staples and is perfect for topping with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or syrup.


Ingredients

3 large eggs

2/3 cup whole milk

2/3 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

Fresh berries, for serving (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 10- or 12-inch cast iron skillet inside to heat.
  2. In a blender, combine eggs, milk, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and frothy.
  3. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and add butter. Swirl to coat the bottom and sides.
  4. Pour the batter into the skillet and return it to the oven.
  5. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
  6. Remove from oven, dust with powdered sugar, and top with berries. Serve immediately.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?