If you’re looking to surprise your breakfast crowd with something showstopping yet ridiculously easy, this German Pancakes Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for! It’s a gorgeously puffed oven pancake, golden on the edges, custardy in the middle, and slightly sweet with just a hint of vanilla. In about half an hour, you’ll have a mesmerizing dish that’s as fun to watch rise in the oven as it is to eat, ready for a dusting of powdered sugar, a splash of lemon, or a cozy drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this German Pancakes Recipe is in its simplicity—every ingredient comes together to make something magical. Each element not only brings flavor but also helps create the unique, airy rise and creamy center that make German pancakes unforgettable.
- Large Eggs: They’re the lift-off power behind that dramatic rise. Make sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
- Whole Milk: Adds richness and ensures the pancake has a tender, custard-like texture in the middle.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone that holds everything together in that pillowy, puffy bite.
- Salt: Just a pinch, but it brightens all the flavors and keeps things from tasting flat.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash gives the whole thing a warm, irresistible fragrance while it bakes.
- Granulated Sugar: Just enough to sweeten without veering into dessert territory—perfect for breakfast.
- Unsalted Butter (for the pan): Melted in the hot dish, it not only prevents sticking but adds flavor and those deliciously browned edges.
- Powdered Sugar (for serving): A snow-like finish and gentle sweetness—this is classic!
- Fresh Lemon Wedges or Maple Syrup (optional, for serving): Lemon brightens every bite, while maple syrup is pure comfort food.
How to Make German Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Pan
Start by firing up your oven to 425°F (220°C) and sliding your chosen baking dish (a 9×13-inch or two 9-inch pie plates) inside while it heats. This step is crucial—the hot pan helps create those signature puffy, crisp edges when the batter hits it.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, flour, salt, vanilla extract, and sugar. Whisk vigorously until your batter is absolutely smooth and free of any flour streaks or lumps. A smooth batter means an even, gorgeous rise in your finished German Pancakes Recipe.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Once your pan is blazing hot, carefully pull it from the oven (use oven mitts—it’s very hot!). Drop in the butter and swirl it around until fully melted, making sure every inch of the bottom and sides are coated. This prevents sticking and adds rich flavor.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Immediately pour your batter into the hot, buttered pan. You’ll hear a delightful sizzle! Pop it back into the oven right away. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, watching as the pancake puffs dramatically and turns golden brown around the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pull your masterpiece from the oven—don’t be surprised when it deflates slightly, that’s part of the magic! Cut into slices and serve immediately, showered with powdered sugar, squeezed with fresh lemon, or drizzled with your favorite syrup.
How to Serve German Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing beats a snowy layer of powdered sugar for classic appeal, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Try a squeeze of lemon for brightness, a spoonful of berry preserves, or a shower of fresh berries for color and tang. Maple syrup adds cozy sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream makes it taste downright decadent.
Side Dishes
Serve your German Pancakes Recipe alongside crispy bacon or savory sausage links for a balanced feast. Fresh fruit salad or a handful of mixed berries add freshness and color on the side, and a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk ties the whole brunch together.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the pancake into elegant wedges and arrange them on a platter, or let guests cut and sprinkle their own toppings at a DIY pancake bar. Individual pie plates let everyone enjoy their own personal puffy pancake, perfect for special breakfasts or entertaining kids.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow end up with leftovers (it’s rare!) let them cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days without losing too much of that lovely texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze slices of German Pancakes Recipe between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, simply warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through. A microwave will do in a pinch, but the oven keeps the edges a bit crisper. Top as you like and enjoy as if fresh!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely! Whole milk gives the richest flavor and texture, but 2 percent works well, too. For dairy-free versions, try unsweetened almond milk—just keep in mind the custardy texture may be slightly lighter.
Why did my pancake deflate after baking?
It’s totally normal—those impressive peaks and valleys settle as the pancake cools. The dramatic rise is thanks to steam and eggs, and a little deflation means it’s just as it should be!
Can I double the recipe for a bigger group?
You sure can! Use two 9×13-inch pans if needed, and bake them on separate racks for the best results. Rotate the pans halfway through baking so everything cooks evenly.
What makes German Pancakes Recipe different from regular pancakes?
Unlike traditional pancakes you flip on the griddle, this batter bakes in a hot oven dish, creating a single, giant pancake that’s impossibly puffy, tender in the center, and perfect for slicing and sharing.
Can I add fruit or flavorings to the batter?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth to the batter, while scattered berries (added right before baking) make for sweet, juicy bites. Just don’t overload the batter, or it could weigh down the rise.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly delightful about making this German Pancakes Recipe—half the fun is watching it puff to life in the oven, the other half is devouring it warm with all your favorite fixings. Give it a try and see why it’s a beloved breakfast classic! Your tastebuds (and your lucky guests) will thank you.
Print
German Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the deliciousness of German Pancakes with this easy-to-follow recipe. These puffed pancakes are a perfect breakfast treat that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Pancake:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For Cooking:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the pan)
For Serving:
- powdered sugar
- fresh lemon wedges or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch pie dishes in the oven while it preheats.
- Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, salt, vanilla extract, and sugar until smooth.
- Prepare the Pan: Remove the hot pan from the oven, add butter, and swirl to coat the bottom and sides.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Serve: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with lemon wedges or maple syrup.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
- The pancake will deflate slightly after coming out of the oven—that’s normal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
