German Pancakes

If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast that will impress your family or weekend guests, look no further than German Pancakes. These fluffy, oven-baked delights are more than just pancakes; they are a culinary experience that combines simplicity with elegance. With a minimal ingredient list, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Drizzled with maple syrup, adorned with berries, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream, these pancakes are sure to become a staple in your breakfast rotation.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of German Pancakes lies in the unique combination of ingredients and the cooking method. The batter is incredibly easy to prepare and requires no complicated techniques. The eggs provide structure, while the milk and flour create a light and airy texture. Baking the pancakes in a hot oven allows them to puff up beautifully, creating those signature edges that are golden and crispy. Plus, with only one pan to clean, you’ll have more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Shopping List

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup milk, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• Confectioners sugar for serving
• Berries for serving (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream for serving
• Maple syrup for serving

Must-Have Equipment

• Mixing bowl – for combining the pancake batter.
• Whisk – to mix ingredients smoothly.
• 9×13 inch baking dish – the perfect size for baking your German Pancakes.
• Oven – where the magic happens, heating your pancakes to puff up beautifully.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements lead to perfect results.

German Pancakes: How It’s Done

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that fluffy, puffy texture that German Pancakes are known for.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take your 9×13 inch baking dish and place the tablespoon pieces of unsalted butter into it. Once the oven is preheated, pop the dish in for about 5 minutes, or until the butter is melted and bubbly.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and kosher salt until combined. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vanilla extract, and eggs. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for the best results. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, whisking until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the butter is melted in the baking dish, carefully pour the batter over the melted butter. Do not stir; the butter should remain around the edges to create that crispy, golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown. Resist the urge to open the oven door during the first 15 minutes to allow the pancakes to rise properly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Cut into squares and serve immediately, dusted with confectioners sugar and topped with your choice of berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup. Enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness of your German Pancakes!

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb option.
• Replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk to reduce carbs.
• Consider using a sugar substitute for the confectioners sugar if desired.

Learn from These Mistakes

Perfecting German Pancakes can take a little practice. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not using room temperature ingredients – This can lead to a lumpy batter and uneven cooking.
• Opening the oven too soon – This can cause the pancakes to deflate.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough pancakes. Just mix until combined.
• Using a cold baking dish – Make sure your dish is hot before adding the batter for the best rise.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Good news! German Pancakes are freezer-friendly. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then cut into squares and layer with parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or warm them in the oven until heated through.

Common Qs About German Pancakes

Can I make German pancakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before pouring it into the hot baking dish.

Why did my German pancakes not puff up?

If your pancakes didn’t puff up, it could be due to a variety of reasons, such as using cold ingredients, opening the oven door too soon, or not preheating the oven properly. Ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature and following the baking instructions closely will help achieve that perfect rise.

What toppings go well with German pancakes?

The possibilities are endless! Traditional toppings include confectioners sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. You can also get creative with toppings like lemon curd, yogurt, or even chocolate sauce!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness as you go along.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the perfect German Pancakes, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these pancakes will surely delight. With their fluffy texture, golden edges, and endless topping possibilities, German Pancakes are a dish that everyone will love.

So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious breakfast treat that’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of this airy, sweet, and satisfying dish, and watch as they disappear off the plate! Happy cooking!

German Pancakes

These German Pancakes are fluffy and oven-baked, perfect for impressing family or guests at breakfast!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: German

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Pancakes:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter cut into tablespoon pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup milk at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 large eggs at room temperature
• Confectioners sugar for serving
• Berries for serving (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream for serving
• Maple syrup for serving

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish - Place the tablespoon pieces of unsalted butter into the baking dish and pop it in the oven until melted and bubbly.
3. Step 3: Mix the Batter - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vanilla extract, and eggs. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, whisking until smooth.
4. Step 4: Combine Everything - Carefully pour the batter over the melted butter without stirring.
5. Step 5: Bake to Perfection - Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are puffed and golden brown.
6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Let cool for a minute, cut into squares, dust with confectioners sugar, and top with berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.

Notes

• For a low-carb option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• These pancakes are freezer-friendly; store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.