Name: Baked German Pancake: Fluffy Delight for Lazy Mornings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 large eggs (use room temperature); 1 cup milk (any type of milk); 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melt in the baking pan); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt (use sea salt or kosher salt); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (can replace with almond extract)

There’s something magical about watching a Baked German Pancake rise dramatically in the oven, almost like a fluffy soufflé. This delightful breakfast transform takes just 5 minutes of prep, making it a quick and easy option for busy mornings or leisurely brunch gatherings. With its light, airy texture and the buttery richness that envelops each bite, it’s a fantastic way to start your day or impress guests without the fuss of complicated recipes. Plus, this family-friendly dish allows for endless topping possibilities, inviting everyone to personalize their pancake with fresh fruits, syrup, or whipped cream. Are you curious about how to achieve that perfect puff and elevate your breakfast game?

Why You’ll Love This Baked German Pancake

Fluffiness Awaits: This Baked German Pancake transforms traditional pancakes into an airy delight, puffing beautifully as it bakes.

Quick Prep: With only 5 minutes of prep time, it’s the ultimate easy breakfast solution for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.

Family-Friendly: Everyone can join in the fun, creating their own deliciously topped pancakes with endless topping possibilities like fresh berries and maple syrup.

Impressive Presentation: Your guests will be wowed as they watch this fluffy dish rise dramatically in the oven, making it a show-stopping centerpiece.

Minimal Ingredients: Made with low ingredient count, you’ll love how easy this recipe is to whip up. For a delightful variation, check out these Cheesecake Stuffed Baked options!

Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to mix in spices or swap toppings according to the season, ensuring you’ll never get bored with this classic dish!

Baked German Pancake Ingredients

• Transform your breakfast with this Baked German Pancake recipe!

For the Batter

Eggs – Provides structure and richness to the pancake; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
Milk – Adds moisture and helps create a tender texture; any dairy or non-dairy milk can be used as a substitute.
All-purpose Flour – The main ingredient that forms the pancake’s base; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Unsalted Butter – Creates flavor and helps the pancake puff up; ensure to melt it in the hot baking pan before adding the batter.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance savory notes; this can be omitted or replaced with a sugar alternative if desired.
Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt or kosher salt works best for a delicious taste.
Vanilla Extract – For flavor enhancement; can be replaced with almond extract for a unique twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked German Pancake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that impressive puff in your Baked German Pancake. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and ensure that your eggs are at room temperature, which will help mix everything smoothly.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
Place 1/4 cup of unsalted butter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and put it in the preheated oven. Allow the butter to melt completely, which should take about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the butter to ensure it doesn’t brown too much; you want it just melted to create a rich, buttery base for your pancake.

Step 3: Blend the Batter
In a blender, combine 4 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend on high for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This blending process will incorporate air into your batter, enhancing the fluffiness of the Baked German Pancake.

Step 4: Add the Batter to the Pan
Carefully remove the hot baking pan from the oven; the melted butter should be bubbling slightly. Pour the batter directly into the pan over the melted butter. Try to distribute it evenly, but don’t worry too much about it being perfect; it will spread as it bakes and create beautiful, puffy edges.

Step 5: Bake the Pancake
Place the batter-filled pan back in the oven and bake for 22-27 minutes. You’ll want to watch for the edges to puff up and turn golden brown, while the center remains airy and soft. The Baked German Pancake is done when it has a slightly set surface and a dramatic puff around the edges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the pancake from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Serve warm, allowing everyone to personalize their slice with toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream for a delicious finish to your Baked German Pancake.

Expert Tips for Baked German Pancake

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and enhances the fluffiness of your Baked German Pancake.
Monitor Butter Temperature: Keep an eye on the butter as it melts; it should be bubbly but not browned. Over-browning can affect flavor and hinder that perfect puff.
Avoid Overmixing: Blend the batter just until smooth. Overmixing introduces too much air, which can lead to a denser pancake instead of the desired airy texture.
Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your pancake straight from the oven. It will deflate slightly as it cools, similar to a soufflé, so surprise your family right away!
Flavors and Toppings: Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra flavor. Toppings like fresh fruits, whipped cream, or syrup can personalize your Baked German Pancake beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked German Pancakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whip up the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. To do this, simply blend the ingredients as instructed, then cover the blender container or transfer the batter to an airtight jar. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and melt the butter in the pan as usual. Pour in the chilled batter, and bake for 22-27 minutes for a fluffy pancake that tastes just as delicious as freshly made. This prep allows you to enjoy a stress-free morning with minimal effort, making it an ideal option for busy family breakfasts!

Baked German Pancake Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine as you put your unique spin on this delightful pancake!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy this classic without the gluten.
You’ll still achieve that fluffy texture everyone loves, making it suitable for all family members.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk and swap butter for coconut oil.
This version provides a delicious alternative while maintaining a delightful taste and texture.
Cinnamon Infusion: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the batter for warm spice and flavor.
This adds a cozy aroma while elevating your pancake’s overall deliciousness, perfect for chilly mornings!
Fruit-Laden Delight: Top your pancake with sautéed apples or fresh berries right before serving.
The warm, juicy fruit complements the fluffy pancake beautifully, creating a delightful taste combination.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking for a sweet surprise.
Every bite becomes a chocolatey bliss, cherished by both kids and adults alike!
Savory Addition: Toss in some cooked bacon bits or sautéed spinach for a savory variation.
This will transform your pancake into a scrumptious brunch option that will impress your guests!
Nutty Surprise: Add slivered almonds or chopped walnuts to the batter for crunch and flavor.
Nuts bring a satisfying texture, offering balance to the soft, airy pancake experience.
Syrup Swap: Try drizzling with homemade berry syrup instead of traditional syrup for a fruity kick.
You can easily make this berry syrup, adding a touch of sweet-tart flavor to your warm pancake!

Enhancing your Baked German Pancake is simple, and these variations will keep your breakfast routine fun and exciting. For a delightful treat, why not serve it alongside Cheesecake Stuffed Baked options for a sweet brunch gathering?

What to Serve with Baked German Pancake

A delightful breakfast deserves equally delicious companions that take your morning experience to the next level.

Fresh Berries: A burst of juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds refreshing acidity, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the pancake. Their vibrant colors also create a beautiful presentation.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds an indulgent touch to the pancake. Whether homemade or store-bought, it brings a rich creaminess that everyone loves.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over your pancake not only enhances its sweetness but also adds a delightful caramelized flavor. This classic pairing will remind you of cozy mornings and hearthside breakfasts.
Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of crispy bacon creates a savory contrast to the fluffy pancake. Together, they form a beautifully balanced meal that embraces both sweet and savory tastes.
Citrus Fruits: Oranges or grapefruits add a zesty brightness that complements the buttery flavors of the pancake. Their juiciness also offers a refreshing twist, ideal for a morning pick-me-up.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully with your breakfast spread. The bitter notes of coffee or calming qualities of tea help create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for slow mornings.
Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates a delicious and nutritious side that offers contrasting textures and flavors. This adds a healthy twist and is a great way to prepare your body for the day ahead.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce elevates the pancake to a dessert- inspired treat. Perfect for special occasions or when you’re feeling indulgent, it offers a delightful sweetness with every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Baked German Pancake

Fridge: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It’s best to enjoy the Baked German Pancake fresh, but it can be reheated gently if necessary.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, storing in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw the slices in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or warm in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, until heated through.

Serving Tips: Enjoy your Baked German Pancake warm or at room temperature, perfect for brunch gatherings or quick weekday breakfasts!

Baked German Pancake Recipe FAQs

What type of eggs should I use for the Baked German Pancake?
Absolutely! For the best results, use room temperature eggs. They help create a smoother batter and enhance the fluffiness of the pancake, giving you that light, airy texture we all love.

How should I store leftovers from the Baked German Pancake?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator covered for up to 1 day. However, I recommend enjoying your pancake fresh from the oven for the best taste. If you choose to refrigerate it, reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temperature.

Can I freeze the Baked German Pancake?
Very! To freeze your pancake, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw your slices in the fridge overnight before reheating, either in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.

I noticed my Baked German Pancake didn’t puff up as much as expected. What could have gone wrong?
Oh dear! The most common culprit is not preheating your oven correctly, or the butter may have cooled down too much before adding the batter. It’s crucial to have the oven at 425°F (220°C) and ensure the butter is bubbling hot when you pour in the batter. Additionally, overmixing can introduce too much air into the batter, which may impact the fluffiness.

Can my pets enjoy the Baked German Pancake too?
Not really! While the components are not toxic (like eggs and milk), the sugar and butter can be too rich for pets. It’s best to stick to pet-friendly treats when sharing with our furry friends.

What about dietary substitutions? Are there any alternatives for the ingredients?
Absolutely! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. You can swap in non-dairy milk for those avoiding dairy, and gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version. For a lower sugar option, feel free to omit the granulated sugar or substitute it with a sugar alternative that works for your diet!