A Dutch Baby pancake is a light, buttery oven-baked pancake made in a single skillet. With just a few pantry staples, this easy recipe is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a simple dinner. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the best Dutch baby in a cast iron skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Dutch Baby Pancake Recipe
- Easy to make – Blend, pour, and bake.
- One-pan meal – Minimal cleanup.
- Versatile – Serve sweet with berries or savory with bacon and eggs.
- Crowd-pleaser – Great for family breakfasts and special occasions.
What is a Dutch Baby Pancake?
A Dutch baby is a puffy oven-baked pancake with crisp edges and a tender, custard-like center. It rises dramatically in the oven, creating golden peaks and valleys. Unlike stovetop pancakes, it bakes in the oven and requires very little hands-on time.
Recommended Equipment
- 12-inch cast iron skillet – ideal for even heat and a crisp crust.
- Blender or mixing bowl – for a smooth batter.
No cast iron? Use a similar oven-safe baking dish; the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How to Make Dutch Baby Pancake
Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly puffed Dutch baby in a cast iron skillet.
- Preheat the oven – Place your cold 12-inch skillet in the oven and preheat to 400°F (200°C). Put the butter in the skillet so it melts as the oven heats. Remove the pan once the butter is melted and bubbling.
- Make the batter – In a blender (or whisk in a bowl), combine 3 eggs, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Blend until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Pour and bake – Pour the batter into the hot, buttered skillet and return it to the oven. Bake on the center rack for 20–25 minutes, until the pancake is puffed and golden brown.
Ingredients for the Perfect Dutch Baby
You only need a handful of common ingredients to make this Dutch baby:
- 3 tablespoons butter – for greasing the skillet and flavor.
- 3 eggs – provide structure and lift.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour – sifted for a silky batter.
- 2 tablespoons sugar – for a light sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – to balance flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for aroma and depth.
- 3/4 cup milk – brings the batter together.
How to Serve a Dutch Baby Pancake
Serve the Dutch baby straight from the oven while it’s still puffed. Popular toppings include:
- Classic – Dust with powdered sugar.
- Fruity – Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or sautéed apples.
- Sweet – Drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
- Savory – Add crispy bacon, grated cheese, or sautéed vegetables.
Tips for the Best Dutch Baby
- Use room-temperature eggs and milk – they blend more evenly and help create a lighter batter.
- Preheat the skillet – a hot pan ensures a crisp, golden edge.
- Resist opening the oven early – allow the pancake to finish rising for the best texture.
Dutch Baby FAQs
Can I make a Dutch baby without a cast iron skillet?
Yes. An oven-safe baking dish works fine; cast iron simply gives the crispiest edges and most even browning.
Why didn’t my Dutch baby puff up?
Ensure the oven and skillet are fully preheated and the batter is well blended. A properly heated pan and evenly mixed batter help the pancake rise.
Can I make a dairy-free Dutch baby?
Yes. Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
Dutch Baby Recipe in Cast Iron
I hope you enjoy this simple cast iron Dutch baby. If you try it, leave a review to share how it turned out.
Dutch Baby Recipe in Cast Iron
10 mins
20 mins
30 mins
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
- Place 3 tablespoons butter into a 12-inch cast iron skillet. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pan when the butter is melted and bubbly.
- In a blender, combine eggs, flour, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Blend until smooth and no lumps remain.
- Pour the batter into the heated cast iron skillet.
- Bake on the center rack for 20–25 minutes, until puffy and golden brown.
Notes
- Nutrition facts are an estimate based on the ingredients used.
- Serve with powdered sugar, syrup, or fresh fruit.