Classic Dutch Baby Pancake: A Detailed Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon table salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
  3. In a 10-inch cast iron skillet or ovenproof frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Swirl the butter around the pan to coat the bottom and sides.
  4. Pour the batter into the skillet and immediately transfer to the preheated oven.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the Dutch Baby is puffed and golden.
  6. Remove from the oven and dust with powdered sugar.
  7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced twist.
  • Top the Dutch Baby with fresh fruits like berries, sliced peaches, or bananas for a fruity variation.
  • Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
  • Incorporate savory ingredients like cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier version.
  • Drizzle the finished Dutch Baby with maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
  • Experiment with different extracts such as almond, coconut, or orange to infuse unique flavors into the batter.
  • Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with a flax or chia seed egg replacement and use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk.

Recipe overview

The Dutch Baby, also known as a German pancake, is a delightful treat that is surprisingly simple to make at home. With its golden crust and fluffy interior, it's a showstopper that's perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. This recipe uses basic pantry ingredients like flour, milk, and eggs. The batter is quickly whipped together, then baked in a hot oven until it puffs up and turns a beautiful golden brown. A dusting of powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice provide the finishing touches. Despite its impressive appearance, a Dutch Baby is very easy to prepare, making it a perfect option for both experienced home cooks and beginners in the kitchen.

Common questions

  1. How do I know when the Dutch Baby is done baking?
    The Dutch Baby is done baking when it is puffed and golden, usually around 20 minutes.
  2. Can I use a different type of pan?
    It is best to use a 10-inch cast iron skillet or ovenproof frying pan to achieve the best results.
  3. Can I use a different type of flour?
    All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other types of flour if desired.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Dutch Baby is best enjoyed immediately after baking, as it tends to deflate as it cools. However, you can prepare the batter in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
  5. What can I serve with Dutch Baby?
    Dutch Baby is often served with powdered sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also top it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Despite its name, the Dutch Baby pancake is not from the Netherlands but is actually an American invention. This delightful puff pancake originated in the early 20th century in Seattle, Washington. The name "Dutch Baby" was coined by one of Victor Manca's daughters. Manca owned Manca's Cafe, a family-run restaurant where the recipe was developed. The "Dutch" part of the name is believed to be a corruption of the word "Deutsch", the German word for "German". This is because the pancake's characteristics are similar to that of a German pancake. However, the Dutch Baby stands out due to its dramatic puff in the oven and the indented center ready to be filled with your favorite toppings. So, while you enjoy your Dutch Baby, take a moment to appreciate the serendipity of miscommunication and the delicious results it can yield.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.