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German Pancakes, also known as Dutch Baby Pancakes or German Puff Pancakes, are one of those magical breakfasts that never get old. They’re buttery, eggy, and golden around the edges – like a cross between pancakes, crepes, and popovers.
A Blickenstaff Family Recipe
One of my favorite childhood memories is watching my Dad pull German Pancakes out of the oven on Christmas morning. It was one of his favorite family recipes that came from his sister, my Aunt Mary. When they first come out of the oven they are so huge and fluffy! All the kids would run into the kitchen to catch a glimpse before the pancakes deflated. We would also always fight over who would get the corner pieces. Now that I am older I know that all the pieces are equally delicious! They are so buttery and tender, you can just drizzle some hot maple syrup on top and you are set.
I promise this German Pancake recipe is going to become one of your favorite breakfasts too!
❤️ Kelsey
What are German Pancakes?
If you’ve never made German Pancakes before, let me tell you – they’re unlike any other pancake! German Pancakes (sometimes called Dutch Baby Pancakes or German Puff Pancakes) are made with a simple batter of eggs, flour, milk, and butter. Instead of frying them on a griddle like American pancakes, the batter is baked in a hot pan, where they “puff up” in the oven.
The result? Light, fluffy, golden pancakes with crispy edges and a tender middle. They’re impressive to look at, but the best part is they are easy to make! All you need is a blender and about 5 minutes prep.
According to Wikipedia, German Pancakes were introduced into America by Victor Manca, a restaurant owner in Seattle, Washington in the 1940s. One of his daughters gave them the name “Dutch babies.”
Key Ingredients
You only need 5 simple ingredients to make delicious German pancakes: Flour, Milk, Eggs, Butter, and Salt.
How to Make German Pancakes
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the butter in a 9×13 baking dish and put it in the oven while it is preheating to melt.
- In a blender, mix one egg at a time until all 6 eggs are blended and smooth. A whisk and bowl won’t work – you need to use a blender to get the right consistency.
- After all the eggs are mixed, add the flour, milk, and a pinch of salt. Blend until combined
- Take the baking dish out of the oven and swirl the butter around so it evenly coats the bottom, then pour the egg mixture over the top of the butter.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned and the middle is puffed up.
- Serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.
Recipe Tips
Use a blender: The batter must be made in a blender to give it the airy texture needed for the rise of the pancakes. Hand whisking or a hand-held electric blender won’t work for this recipe.
The best pan to use: A 9×13 glass baking dish or cast-iron dish (pictured) give the best results for this recipe. I’ve tried baking this recipe in an 11×7 pan for thicker pancakes, but they did not set up well in the middle even with a longer baking time.
Serve immediately: And I do mean, immediately. When I make German pancakes, I set the table and have the toppings ready to go while they are baking. I make sure everyone is seated and ready to eat when I pull the pancakes out of the oven. A little extra, but worth it!
Our Favorite German Pancake Toppings
Now that you’ve made your German Pancakes, let’s talk toppings! Traditional maple syrup will always be a favorite, but have you tried these other toppings?
- Fresh Berries, Powdered Sugar, and Whipped Cream
- Homemade Buttermilk Syrup
- Cinnamon and Sugar
- Homemade Strawberry Syrup
- My Grandpa Blickenstaff used to eat his German Pancakes with salsa and sour cream. It sounds strange but it’s a good combo if you like savory!
Frequently Asked Questions
This is totally normal! German pancakes rise in the oven and then settle as they cool. The puff doesn’t last forever, but the flavor and texture will still be just as good.
If your German pancakes don’t puff in the oven, then it is likely your pan wasn’t hot enough. Place the pan in the oven when you set it to preheat. This will ensure the pan rises to the same temperature as the oven – which is necessary for the rise of the pancakes.
The short answer is no. German pancakes are best right when they come out of the oven when they are puffy and golden.
I always use a 9×13-inch baking dish with this recipe. A glass or cast iron dish works best.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best reheated in the oven at 350°F for 7-8 minutes. They won’t be quite as puffy, but they will still taste great. You can also reheat a serving for 20-30 seconds in the microwave, but the texture will be softer.
More “Show-Stopper” Breakfasts
Looking for more delicious breakfast recipes? Try some of our favorites!
Did your German Pancakes puff sky-high? I’d love to hear how they turned out! Please leave a comment and review below so we can swap breakfast stories. 😋
German Pancakes (Easy Oven-Baked Dutch Baby)
Equipment
- 9 x 13 Glass Pan
- Blender
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup flour
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. While the oven is preheating, place the butter in a 9×13 pan and put it in the oven to melt.
- In a blender, mix one egg until smooth. Add the rest of the eggs one at a time, blending between each one.
- Add milk, flour, and salt. Blend until combined.
- Pour egg mixture over melted butter.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown and the middle is puffed up.
- Serve immediately with your favorite pancake toppings.
Video
Notes
- Use a blender. This gives the batter the airy texture needed to “puff up” while baking.
- Preheat the baking dish. Leave the 9×13 pan in the oven for the entire time the oven is preheating. Remove it only when you add the batter, then return it immediately to the oven.
I’ve never heard of German pancakes until now! And these were so yummy and easy. I had all the ingredients in my pantry already.
This is such a easy and delicious way to get breakfast on the table! A family favorite!
These were wonderful! We can’t wait to make them again!