ADVERTISEMENT
Step 2: Make the Batter
While the oven is heating, prepare the batter. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. The batter will be quite thin, which is exactly what you want for the soft, custardy center of the Dutch Baby.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Once the oven has preheated, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (use oven mitts!). Add the butter to the skillet, swirling it around until it melts and coats the bottom and sides of the pan. The butter should sizzle as it hits the hot skillet.
Step 4: Pour in the Batter
Quickly pour the prepared batter into the sizzling butter. The batter will likely sizzle a little too, which is a good sign. Return the skillet to the oven immediately.
Step 5: Bake the Dutch Baby
Bake the Dutch Baby for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown and the center is set. The pancake will rise up dramatically as it bakes, creating a beautiful, uneven puff. It’s important not to open the oven door during baking, as the sudden change in temperature can cause the Dutch Baby to deflate prematurely.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once the Dutch Baby is done baking, remove the skillet from the oven. The pancake will start to sink slightly as it cools, but it will still hold its shape. Let it cool for a minute or two, then cut it into wedges. Dust with powdered sugar or top with your favorite toppings—fresh fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt.
Topping Ideas for Your Dutch Baby Bake
The beauty of a Dutch Baby is its versatility when it comes to toppings. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
Sweet Toppings:
- Fresh Fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or roasted apples make great additions to a Dutch Baby. The sweetness of the fruit complements the soft pancake perfectly.
- Maple Syrup: For a classic touch, drizzle your Dutch Baby with warm maple syrup. You can also add a little powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce (or Nutella) will make this treat even more indulgent.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the pancake for a simple, sweet touch that adds a warm spice to every bite.
Savory Toppings:
- Cheese and Spinach: For a savory twist, try topping your Dutch Baby with sautéed spinach, fresh herbs, and your favorite cheese (think cheddar, goat cheese, or Gruyère).
- Bacon or Sausage: Crumbled bacon or sausage pairs wonderfully with the rich, fluffy texture of the pancake. You could even make a breakfast-style Dutch Baby with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese.
- Avocado and Eggs: For a more contemporary take, top the pancake with sliced avocado and a poached egg, adding a little salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for the Perfect Dutch Baby Bake
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet is the best choice for making Dutch Baby Bake. It holds and distributes heat evenly, helping to create that puffed, golden edge. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe pan will work, though you may not get the same dramatic rise.
- Serve Immediately: The Dutch Baby is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s still puffed and golden. As it cools, it will deflate a little, but it will still be delicious.
- Experiment with Flavors: While the basic Dutch Baby is amazing on its own, feel free to experiment with flavorings. You can add a splash of almond extract to the batter, or even mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Make It Ahead: While the Dutch Baby is best served fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just give it a quick whisk and proceed with the recipe.
Why You’ll Love Dutch Baby Bake
The Dutch Baby Bake is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and wow-factor. Its fluffy, custard-like interior and crispy edges make it the perfect balance of textures. The fact that it’s baked in one pan makes it a no-fuss breakfast or brunch option, and it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Whether you like sweet or savory, this is the pancake that can do it all.
It’s also an impressive dish to serve to guests—after all, who can resist a giant, golden pancake fresh out of the oven? Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch or just a fun breakfast treat, the Dutch Baby Bake is sure to become a favorite.
Enjoy your Dutch Baby Bake and don’t forget to share!
ADVERTISEMENT
