Sweet Dutch Baby Recipe: How to Make Dutch Baby Pancakes
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Jul 7, 2024 • 2 min read
Learn how to make a decadent Dutch baby at home with this easy recipe.
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What Is a Dutch Baby?
A Dutch baby is a large popover baked in a cast-iron skillet. This billowy popover is sometimes called a German pancake, a Dutch baby pancake, or an oven pancake. A Dutch baby is baked in the oven, whereas pancakes and crepes cook on the stovetop. Dutch babies have an eggy flavor, fluffy texture, and tend to swell around the edges and dip in the middle. You can fill the center of a Dutch baby with toppings such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, and powdered sugar.
Origins of the Dutch Baby
Contrary to its name, a Dutch baby is not of Dutch origin. Dutch babies first appeared on the menu at Manca's Café in Seattle in the 1940s, and the family-run restaurant trademarked the pancake’s name. According to Manca's, the name came about as a mispronunciation of “Deutch” (German). Dutch babies, though, are more similar to England's custardy Yorkshire pudding than to German pfannkuchen, which are thin and crepe-like.
3 Dutch Baby Toppings
The hollow center of a Dutch baby is perfect for sweet add-ins.
- 1. Apples: Cook apple slices with butter and brown sugar directly in the cast iron pan, then top with the Dutch baby batter and bake. You can also add a dollop of applesauce to the Dutch baby.
- 2. Lemon and powdered sugar: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar on top to make a classic Dutch baby.
- 3. Fresh berries: For a luxurious brunch option, pile mixed fresh berries in the center of a Dutch baby and drizzle with maple syrup.
Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe
makes
prep time
10 mintotal time
25 mincook time
15 minIngredients
- 1
Place a 10-inch, overproof cast-iron skillet in the oven and preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use an oven-safe baking dish or pie plate.
- 2
In a large bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
- 3
Add the flour and whisk to a smooth paste.
- 4
Slowly add milk, whisking constantly.
- 5
Season the batter with a pinch of salt and vanilla extract, if using.
- 6
When the oven has preheated, carefully remove the hot skillet and add butter.
- 7
Swirl the hot pan to coat it in melted butter.
- 8
Pour the batter into the skillet.
- 9
Bake until the center is set and the edges are crispy and deep golden brown, about 12–15 minutes.
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