Looking for the perfect German Pancakes recipe? This light, fluffy, and oven-baked version—also known as a Dutch Baby—is the easiest way to elevate breakfast or brunch. It puffs dramatically in the oven, creating crispy edges and a tender, custard-like center that melts in your mouth.
This dish comes together in just 5 minutes with basic pantry staples like eggs, flour, and milk. Whether you’re a weekend warrior in the kitchen or cooking for guests, this German Pancakes recipe will never let you down.
Want to learn why pancakes puff the way they do? This pancake science article breaks it down beautifully. If you’re planning to use a cast iron pan (which is highly recommended), check out this cast iron care guide so you treat your pan right.
📜 What Is a German Pancakes Recipe?
The German Pancakes recipe is a classic American dish with German-inspired roots. Also called a Dutch Baby, it’s made by baking an egg-heavy batter in a preheated pan at a high temperature.
Unlike traditional pancakes:
- It’s baked, not fried
- It has no baking powder
- It rises dramatically thanks to steam and eggs
- It delivers a mix of crispy edges and a custardy center
🥚 Ingredients for the Best German Pancakes Recipe
🧾 Core Ingredients
To make this German Pancakes recipe, you’ll need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% for best results)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- (Optional): 1 tsp vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon
Want to explore healthy starts to your day? Pair this with something from our list of quick, healthy, and delicious morning meals.
🧂 Substitutions & Flavor Variations
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options
- Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
- Use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy
Savory & Sweet Variations
- Add shredded cheese and chives for a savory twist
- Sweeten with sugar, lemon zest, or nutmeg
- Top with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or powdered sugar
🔪 Tools Needed to Make a German Pancakes Recipe
- Cast iron skillet or 9×13” baking dish
- Oven (preheated to 425°F)
- Blender or whisk
Planning brunch for guests? Get inspiration with our guide on how to host a stress-free dinner party.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make This German Pancakes Recipe
Directions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and place the skillet inside.
- Blend the eggs, milk, flour, and salt until smooth.
- Melt butter in the hot pan and swirl to coat.
- Pour batter into the hot skillet and bake immediately.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Cool slightly before topping and slicing.
🧠 Tip: Don’t open the oven door while baking! The pancake needs uninterrupted heat to rise.
🧠 Pro Tips for the Perfect German Pancakes Recipe
- Use room-temperature ingredients for best lift
- Preheat the pan to ensure crispiness
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Watch through the oven door, but never open it!
🧁 Toppings to Elevate Your German Pancakes Recipe
Top your German Pancakes with any of the following:
- Powdered sugar + fresh lemon juice
- Mixed berries or berry compote
- Maple syrup or whipped cream
- Bacon and chives (for a savory version)
Serving guests? Pair it with our hearty classic beef and eggs with toast and hash browns for a complete breakfast spread.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
- Wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days
- Reheat in the toaster oven or standard oven
Avoid the Microwave!
- Microwaving causes rubbery texture
- For crisp results, reheat at 300°F for 5–10 minutes
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid in a German Pancakes Recipe
- Using cold eggs or milk
- Forgetting to preheat the skillet
- Overfilling the pan
- Opening the oven door mid-bake
⚖️ Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~190
- Protein: 8g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 11g
Thanks to the eggs, this German Pancakes recipe is higher in protein than typical pancakes.
❓ FAQs About the German Pancakes Recipe
Is this the same as a Dutch Baby?
Yes! They’re essentially the same dish. “Dutch Baby” became the trendier term in modern cookbooks.
Can I make it without a blender?
Definitely. Just whisk vigorously to avoid lumps.
Why didn’t it puff up?
Check that your pan was hot and that you didn’t open the oven during baking.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
The batter can be made ahead and stored for 1 day, but it should be baked fresh.
Is the batter supposed to be runny?
Yes! A thin batter is crucial for that signature puff.
🥄 Final Thoughts on the Best German Pancakes Recipe
This German Pancakes is a game-changer for home cooks. It’s simple, spectacular, and endlessly customizable. With just a few ingredients, you get an elegant, airy dish that can impress a brunch crowd or treat your weekday self.
Add this recipe to your breakfast rotation and explore more delicious ideas like our flavor-packed lemon and herb chicken for later in the day.
🥞 The Best German Pancakes Recipe (Easy & Fluffy!)
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or 2%
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10- or 12-inch cast iron skillet or a 9×13 baking dish inside to heat up.In a blender or mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, flour, salt, and optional vanilla/cinnamon. Blend or whisk until smooth.Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add butter and swirl to coat the bottom and sides evenly.Pour the batter into the hot pan and return it to the oven immediately.Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown.Remove from oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve with your favorite toppings.
Notes
🧁 Topping Ideas
- Powdered sugar + fresh lemon juice
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries or berry compote
- Whipped cream
- Savory toppings like cheese, chives, or bacon
📝 Recipe Notes
- Use room-temperature eggs and milk for better puff.
- A hot pan is key for achieving the dramatic rise.
- Don’t open the oven door while baking—it needs steady heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or toaster oven.
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