German Pancakes
German pancakes, also known as Dutch babies, are a delightful breakfast treat that puff up beautifully in the oven, creating a light and airy texture. With a crispy edge and soft center, they are perfect for topping with fresh fruit, syrup, or powdered sugar. This recipe will guide you through making this impressive dish that is sure to wow your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of German pancakes (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 215 calories, 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 8g fat, and 1g fiber. This is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Melt butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish in the preheating oven.
- Once melted, quickly pour the batter into the hot dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
- Top with syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar as desired.
- Enjoy the airy texture and rich flavor!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute almond milk for regular milk for a dairy-free option. Whole wheat flour can also be used instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrients. For a sweeter taste, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the batter.
Serving and Pairings
German pancakes are delicious when served with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream. They also pair well with bacon or sausage for a savory breakfast option.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover German pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven properly can lead to flat pancakes.
- Overmixing the batter will make the pancakes dense.
- Using cold ingredients will prevent proper puffing.
- Not using enough butter may cause sticking.
- Opening the oven door too early can deflate the pancakes.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different toppings like lemon juice and powdered sugar.
- Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Ensure the baking dish is hot before adding the batter.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
FAQs
What is the difference between German pancakes and regular pancakes?
German pancakes are baked in the oven, resulting in a puffed and airy texture, while regular pancakes are cooked on a griddle and tend to be flatter.
Can I make German pancakes ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead and bake it just before serving for optimal fluffiness.
What can I use as toppings for German pancakes?
Popular toppings include maple syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even savory options like sautéed vegetables.
How do I prevent my German pancakes from sticking?
Make sure to generously butter the baking dish before pouring in the batter. Using a non-stick pan can also help.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
German pancakes are a delightful addition to any breakfast spread, easy to make and versatile in toppings. Their unique texture and flavor will surely impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and combinations to make this dish your own!
German Pancakes
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Melt butter in a 9x13-inch baking dish in the preheating oven.
- Once melted, quickly pour the batter into the hot dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
- Top with syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar as desired.
- Enjoy the airy texture and rich flavor!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.