Fluffy Dutch Baby Pancake
Whip up a delightful Fluffy Dutch Baby Pancake that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch! This airy and puffed pancake is baked to golden perfection, creating a lightly crispy edge and a soft, tender center. Topped with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with your favorite syrup or fresh fruits, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy weekend morning, the easy preparation makes it a fabulous choice for any home cook.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
eggs
6 (large, room temperature)
milk
1 cup (whole or your choice of milk)
flour
1 cup (all-purpose)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Add the butter to a 9x13 inch baking dish and place it in the oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
3
While the butter is melting, combine the eggs, milk, flour, and salt in a blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
4
Once the butter has melted, carefully pour the batter into the hot baking dish, allowing it to mix slightly with the melted butter.
5
Bake the pancake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until it is puffy and golden brown.
6
Remove from the oven, and while still warm, sprinkle with powdered sugar.
7
Slice into squares and serve immediately with your choice of syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Fluffy Dutch Baby Pancake?
A Dutch Baby is a large, American popover-like pancake that is baked in the oven rather than fried on a griddle, resulting in a puffed shape with crispy edges.
Why didn't my Dutch Baby pancake puff up?
The most common reasons for a lack of puff are using cold eggs or milk, not preheating the baking dish, or over-mixing the batter.
Do the eggs really need to be at room temperature?
Yes, room temperature eggs emulsify better and allow the batter to trap more air, which is essential for the pancake to rise and become fluffy.
Can I use a cast iron skillet instead of a 9x13 baking dish?
Absolutely! A 10 or 12-inch cast iron skillet is a traditional choice and works excellently for heat retention and achieving crispy edges.
Why do I need to use a blender for the batter?
A blender ensures the batter is completely smooth and incorporates air bubbles, leading to a much lighter and fluffier texture compared to hand-whisking.
Can I make the batter in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours, but make sure to let it come back to room temperature before baking for the best rise.
Is it normal for the pancake to deflate after leaving the oven?
Yes, it is perfectly normal. The steam that caused the puff escapes as it cools, causing the center to fall while leaving the edges tall and crispy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for melting in the pan.
Can I make this pancake gluten-free?
You can use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, though the texture may be slightly less airy than the traditional version.
What is the best way to serve a Dutch Baby?
It is best served warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, or fresh seasonal berries.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people when cut into squares or wedges.
Can I add sugar to the batter?
You can add a tablespoon of sugar for sweetness, but be careful as too much sugar can make the batter heavy and prevent a high rise.
What if I don't have a blender?
If you don't have a blender, whisk the eggs and milk vigorously first, then slowly sift in the flour to avoid lumps and maintain aeration.
Why is the butter melted in the pan before adding the batter?
The hot butter creates a non-stick surface and immediately begins cooking the bottom and edges of the batter, helping it climb the sides of the dish.
Can I make a savory Dutch Baby?
Yes! Omit the powdered sugar and top with ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, herbs, ham, and Gruyere cheese for a savory brunch option.
How long does it take to bake?
It typically takes about 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
Can I add fruit into the batter before baking?
Adding heavy fruit to the batter may prevent it from rising. It is better to place thin slices of fruit on top just before baking or serve fresh fruit after.
What type of flour is recommended?
All-purpose flour is the standard choice for this recipe as it provides the right amount of structure without being too heavy.
Why did my pancake turn out rubbery?
Rubbery texture is often caused by over-mixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops too much gluten.
Can I use low-fat milk?
While you can use 1% or 2% milk, whole milk provides a richer flavor and better texture for the soft center.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
How do I reheat a Dutch Baby?
Reheat it in a 350 degree oven for a few minutes to restore some of the crispness; microwaving is not recommended as it will make it soggy.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the additional salt in the batter slightly to compensate.
What makes it a 'Dutch Baby'?
The name is a corruption of 'Deutsch', as the recipe is derived from German pancakes, and 'baby' refers to the small versions originally served in a Seattle cafe.
Can I use vanilla extract in this recipe?
Yes, adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the blender will enhance the flavor for sweet versions of the pancake.
Is it okay if the butter browns in the oven?
A little browning is fine and adds a nutty flavor, but be careful not to let it burn before adding the batter.
Can I use bread flour?
Bread flour has more protein and may result in a tougher, chewier pancake; all-purpose flour is preferred for a tender center.
Do I need to grease the sides of the pan?
The melted butter in the bottom usually coats the sides sufficiently when you swirl it, preventing sticking as the pancake rises.
Can I make this for one person?
You can halve the recipe and use a smaller 6-inch oven-safe skillet for a personal-sized Dutch Baby.
Is a Dutch Baby healthy?
It is a moderate-calorie breakfast option that provides protein from eggs and milk, but nutrition depends on the amount of butter and toppings used.