The aroma of warm butter and eggs wafting through the kitchen transports me back to quiet Sunday mornings spent with family. This Fluffy Baked German Pancake, also known as a Dutch Baby Pancake, is a breakfast delight that brings everyone together. With just five simple ingredients, the magic happens in the oven as this easy breakfast puffs up into a light, airy masterpiece that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds. Not only does this baked pancake require minimal effort, but it also impresses with its rich buttery flavor—a true crowd-pleaser to serve any time of day. Have you ever wondered how something so simple can be so enchanting? Let’s dive into the recipe and make some breakfast magic!

Why is Baked German Pancake So Special?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires just five ingredients you probably already have on hand, making it budget-friendly and easy to whip up. Impressive presentation: Serve a beautifully puffed pancake that wows family and friends without the stress of intricate cooking techniques. Versatile toppings: Customize with fresh fruits, syrup, or whipped cream for endless flavor combinations. Quick preparation time: In about 30 minutes, you have a stunning dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner! Whether enjoyed alongside a savory meal or as a sweet treat, you can pair it with sides like crispy bacon or a refreshing fruit salad. For more brunch ideas, check out my delicious Cinnamon Roll Pancakes or the cozy Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks!

Baked German Pancake Ingredients

For the Batter

Eggs – Essential for structure and puffiness in your baked German pancake.
Milk – Adds moisture and can be substituted with dairy-free alternatives for a lighter version.
All-purpose Flour – Forms the base of your batter; gluten-free flour works perfectly as a substitute!
Sugar – Introduces a touch of sweetness; feel free to adjust or omit for less sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and helps achieve crispy edges; coconut oil is a great dairy-free option.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pancake.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar – A classic topping that adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Fresh Berries – Add color and flavor; they’re perfect for a fresh and fruity twist!
Syrup – Drizzle over the top for an extra layer of indulgence in your baked pancake.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked German Pancake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 9×13-inch baking pan in the oven along with a generous pat of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt in the oven while it heats up, creating a rich coating at the bottom of the pan that will help give your Baked German Pancake crispy edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a blender, combine four large eggs, one cup of milk, one cup of all-purpose flour, a quarter cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Blend the mixture on high speed for about 30 seconds until it’s smooth and well combined. This simple batter is the heart of your Baked German Pancake, so ensure it’s lump-free for a fluffy outcome.

Step 3: Combine Batter and Butter
Once the butter is fully melted in the hot pan, carefully remove it from the oven. Immediately pour the prepared batter into the center of the baking pan, ensuring the melted butter creates a beautiful contrast with the batter. The sizzling sound will indicate that you’re already off to a perfect start for your Baked German Pancake!

Step 4: Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake the pancake for 22 to 27 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the edges should rise dramatically and turn a lovely golden brown. Look for that puffed-up, airy texture that makes the Baked German Pancake so magnificent.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the pancake from the oven. It will start to deflate slightly as it cools, so sprinkle it immediately with powdered sugar or your favorite toppings like fresh berries or syrup. Serve it straight from the pan for a delightful breakfast that your family will remember!

Expert Tips for Baked German Pancake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the pancake puff up beautifully in the oven.
Avoid Overmixing: Blend the batter just until smooth to prevent a dense texture; lumps are okay, as they will bake out.
Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different; start checking at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking your Baked German Pancake.
Serve Immediately: Serve fresh from the oven for maximum puffiness; it will deflate quickly once it cools.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter for a delightful twist on the classic flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Baked German Pancake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day. The pancake will remain fresh, but expect slight deflation in texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in individual airtight bags for up to 1 month. Reheating will restore some fluffiness.

Reheating: To reheat, place the pancake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, use the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.

Serving Freshness: Enjoy the Baked German Pancake fresh out of the oven for the best puffy texture. Store any extras properly for later delight!

What to Serve with Fluffy Baked German Pancake

Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience as you explore the perfect pairings for your Fluffy Baked German Pancake!

Crispy Bacon: Savory and salty, this classic breakfast side balances the sweetness of the pancake, making every bite a harmonious blend.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing crunch and natural sweetness that complements the rich pancake beautifully.
Maple Syrup or Honey: A warm drizzle of syrup or honey amplifies the Fluffy Baked German Pancake’s buttery flavor, adding a decadent touch.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, the cream adds a luxurious texture and a sweet note, perfect for those who adore a bit of indulgence.
Sautéed Apples: Warm, spiced apples bring out autumnal flavors that meld wonderfully with the pancake’s airy base for a seasonal delight.
Yogurt Parfait: Serve your pancake alongside a yogurt parfait layered with granola and fruit for a delightful contrast in textures, making breakfast even more satisfying.
Herbal Tea or Freshly Brewed Coffee: Warming drinks elevate your breakfast experience, enhancing the flavors of your Fluffy Baked German Pancake while providing cozy comfort.
Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious option, this creamy pudding adds an interesting texture while providing an extra boost of flavor, keeping everything light and refreshing.

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Baked German Pancakes are perfect for meal prep and can truly save you time on busy mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by blending the ingredients as instructed and storing the mixture in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a quick blend again before pouring it into the hot buttered pan for baking. Alternatively, you can bake the pancake ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—simply reheat slices in the microwave or enjoy them cold. This way, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort during the week, still just as delightful and fluffy!

Baked German Pancake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity soar as you explore delightful twists and alternatives for this pancake!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cow’s milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter option, and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Gluten-Free: Try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for warm, comforting flavors.
Sweetness Level: Reduce sugar to suit your taste, or swap it out for maple syrup in the batter for a natural sweetness.
Fruit-Filled: Fold in chopped apples, berries, or even bananas before pouring the batter into the pan for a fruity surprise.
Savory Twist: Incorporate cheese like feta or cheddar and mix in sautéed veggies for a hearty, savory variation perfect for brunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle chocolate sauce or sprinkle cacao nibs on top for indulgent delights that’ll steal the show.
Tropical Flair: Add toasted coconut and pineapples for a vibrant, tropical spin that transports you straight to paradise.

For more breakfast delights, why not try my delicious Cinnamon Roll Pancakes or the cozy Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks?

Baked German Pancake Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for the Baked German Pancake?
Absolutely! Fresh large eggs are ideal for this recipe as they provide the structure and airiness needed for the pancake to puff up beautifully while baking.

How should I store leftovers of the Baked German Pancake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that while it will still taste delicious, the texture may be slightly denser than when freshly baked.

Can I freeze the Baked German Pancake?
Very! For freezing, cut the pancake into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe bags. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating!

What’s the best way to reheat a leftover Baked German Pancake?
For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pancake on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain some of that lovely fluffiness!

Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?
Of course! You can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free alternative. Just ensure your butter substitute, like coconut oil or margarine, complements your dietary needs.

What if my pancake doesn’t puff up as expected?
If your Baked German Pancake doesn’t puff, it could be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Ensure you mix just until combined and use room temperature eggs and milk. Lastly, make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that magnificent puff!