German pancakes, also known as Dutch Babies, are a delightful breakfast treat that puffs up dramatically while baking, resulting in a light, airy, and slightly crispy texture. Unlike traditional pancakes that are cooked on a griddle, German pancakes are baked in the oven, making them incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends with its stunning presentation and delicious flavor. Follow this detailed guide to create a perfect batch of German pancakes that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients for German Pancakes:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
How to Make German Pancakes:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place a 10-inch ovenproof skillet or baking dish in the oven to heat up while you prepare the batter.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, salt, vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- For best results, use a blender to combine the ingredients, which ensures a perfectly smooth batter.
- Melt the Butter:
- Carefully remove the hot skillet or baking dish from the oven.
- Add the butter to the skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides evenly.
- The butter should melt and sizzle upon contact with the hot skillet, creating a flavorful base for the pancake.
- Bake the Pancake:
- Pour the prepared batter into the hot, buttered skillet.
- Quickly return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the pancake to deflate.
- Serve:
- Once the pancake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar.
- Serve the German pancake with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top, fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Eggs:
Eggs are a crucial ingredient in German pancakes, providing structure and helping the pancake to puff up dramatically in the oven. The high egg content also gives the pancake its rich, custardy texture. - Whole Milk:
Whole milk adds moisture and richness to the batter. The fat content in whole milk contributes to the pancake’s tender texture. You can substitute with lower-fat milk, but the results may be slightly less rich. - All-Purpose Flour:
All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure for the pancake. It’s important to measure the flour accurately and mix the batter until smooth to avoid lumps. - Unsalted Butter:
Butter not only adds flavor but also helps create a crispy, golden crust on the bottom and sides of the pancake. Melting the butter in the hot skillet before adding the batter is key to achieving this texture. - Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the pancake, adding a subtle sweetness and aroma that complements the other ingredients. - Granulated Sugar:
A small amount of granulated sugar adds sweetness to the batter without overpowering it. This allows the pancake to be versatile, pairing well with both sweet and tart toppings. - Powdered Sugar:
Powdered sugar is used for dusting the finished pancake, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful, decorative finish. - Lemon Wedges:
Fresh lemon wedges are a classic accompaniment to German pancakes. The tartness of the lemon juice balances the sweetness of the pancake, creating a delightful flavor contrast. - Fresh Berries:
Fresh berries add a burst of color and natural sweetness. They make the pancake more visually appealing and add a refreshing element to each bite. - Maple Syrup:
Maple syrup is optional but highly recommended for those who enjoy a sweet topping. It pairs perfectly with the flavors of the pancake and makes for a deliciously indulgent breakfast.
German pancakes are a simple yet impressive dish that can elevate any breakfast or brunch. Their dramatic rise and fall in the oven, along with their light and airy texture, make them a favorite among both kids and adults. This recipe is easy to follow and uses basic pantry ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook. Whether you serve them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a dusting of powdered sugar, a handful of fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup, these German pancakes are sure to delight your taste buds and become a beloved addition to your breakfast repertoire. Enjoy this classic dish with your family and friends and savor the delicious flavors of this timeless recipe.
