“Fluffy Oven-Baked Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe”

# Fluffy Oven-Baked Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe: A Delightful Breakfast Treat

If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that’s both impressive and easy to make, look no further than the Dutch baby pancake. This oven-baked delight, sometimes referred to as a German pancake, is a cross between a pancake, a crepe, and a popover. With its golden, puffed-up edges and custardy center, the Dutch baby is a showstopper that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning meal, this fluffy creation is sure to please. Let’s dive into the recipe and some tips for achieving the perfect Dutch baby pancake.

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## What Is a Dutch Baby Pancake?

A Dutch baby pancake is a large, airy pancake baked in the oven instead of being cooked on a stovetop. It’s made with a simple batter of eggs, milk, flour, and a touch of sugar, and it puffs up dramatically as it bakes, thanks to the steam created by the high oven temperature. Once removed from the oven, it deflates slightly, leaving behind a soft, custardy center and crisp, golden edges.

Despite its name, the Dutch baby pancake isn’t Dutch at all. It’s believed to have originated in the United States, inspired by German pancakes. The term “Dutch” is thought to be a corruption of “Deutsch,” which means “German” in German.

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## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– **Quick and Easy**: The batter comes together in minutes, and the oven does all the work.
– **Versatile**: You can customize it with sweet or savory toppings to suit your taste.
– **Impressive**: Its dramatic puff and golden color make it a stunning centerpiece for any breakfast table.
– **Minimal Cleanup**: Everything is mixed in one bowl, and it’s baked in a single skillet or pan.

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## Ingredients

To make a classic Dutch baby pancake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 3 large eggs (room temperature)
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional for a sweeter pancake)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, syrup, or other toppings (optional)

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## Equipment

– A blender, whisk, or mixing bowl
– A 10- to 12-inch oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best)
– Oven mitts (the skillet gets very hot!)

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## Step-by-Step Instructions

### 1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your skillet in the oven as it heats up. This ensures the pan is hot and ready for the batter, which helps create the dramatic puff.

### 2. Prepare the Batter
In a blender or mixing bowl, combine the eggs, flour, milk, sugar, vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Blend or whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate.

### 3. Melt the Butter
Once the oven and skillet are fully preheated, carefully remove the skillet using oven mitts. Add the butter to the hot skillet, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides. The butter should melt quickly and sizzle but not burn.

### 4. Pour in the Batter
Immediately pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet. Return the skillet to the oven as quickly as possible to maintain the high temperature.

### 5. Bake the Dutch Baby
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown around the edges. Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the pancake to deflate prematurely.

### 6. Serve Immediately
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. The Dutch baby will begin to deflate as it cools, so serve it right away for the most dramatic presentation. Dust with powdered sugar, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

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## Topping Ideas

The beauty of a Dutch baby pancake lies in its versatility. Here are some topping ideas to inspire you:

### Sweet Toppings:
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Sliced bananas
– Maple syrup or honey
– Whipped cream
– Nutella or chocolate sauce
– Lemon juice and powdered sugar (a classic combination)

### Savory Toppings:
– Sautéed mushrooms and spinach
– Crispy bacon or prosciutto
– Shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan)
– Smoked salmon and cream cheese
– Avocado slices and a poached egg

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## Tips for Success

1. **Room