Introduction:
The Dutch Baby, often referred to as a German pancake, is a large, light, and fluffy pancake that puffs dramatically when baked. Unlike traditional stovetop pancakes, this one is baked in the oven in a hot cast iron skillet, creating crispy edges and a soft center. It can be topped with fresh fruits, powdered sugar, or syrup, making it a versatile dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh fruits or berries, for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup or lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 220°C (425°F) and place a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet in the oven to heat up.
- Prepare the batter: In a blender, combine the eggs, flour, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend for about 30 seconds until smooth and frothy. Alternatively, whisk vigorously by hand until no lumps remain.
- Melt the butter: Once the oven and skillet are fully heated, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and add the butter. Swirl it around to coat the entire skillet.
- Bake the Dutch Baby: Immediately pour the batter into the hot skillet, and place it back in the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the Dutch Baby is puffed and golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with fresh fruits, syrup, or a squeeze of lemon.
Health Notes:
- Eggs and dairy provide protein and healthy fats, making this a relatively balanced dish.
- For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Those sensitive to dairy can use almond milk or any non-dairy substitute in place of whole milk.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately after baking, as the Dutch Baby will start to deflate after a few minutes. Pair with seasonal fruits, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a perfect breakfast or brunch.
Tips:
- Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Preheat the skillet well, as this helps create the dramatic puffing effect.
- Customize your Dutch Baby by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest to the batter for extra flavor.
