German Pancakes – These airy, puffed pancakes are made with basic pantry staples like eggs, milk, flour, and butter. With their golden-brown exterior and custard-like center, they’re a true treat for a cozy family breakfast or a festive holiday brunch.
What Are German Pancakes?
German Pancakes are a type of baked pancake that puffs up dramatically in the oven, thanks to the high egg content and the steam generated during baking. The result is a light, slightly crispy edge with a soft, almost custardy center. Despite their name, they’re not traditionally German but are thought to have originated in the U.S. and were popularized by German immigrants.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect German Pancakes
Making German Pancakes is simple, but these tips will ensure your dish comes out perfect every time:
- Preheat the Pan: Place your skillet or baking dish in the oven as it preheats. Adding the batter to a hot pan ensures a dramatic puff and crispy edges.
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Eggs and milk at room temperature mix more smoothly, creating a uniform batter.
- Don’t Peek: Resist the urge to open the oven door while baking. The steam is crucial for the pancake to puff up properly.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Blend the batter until smooth to avoid lumps, or use a blender for a quick and easy mix.
- Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on butter—it prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Variations of German Pancakes
While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize German Pancakes:
- Sweet Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
- Incorporate vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Top with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Savory Variations:
- Add shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or crumbled bacon to the batter.
- Serve with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and chives for a sophisticated twist.
- Seasonal Variations:
- Use pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice in the fall.
- Add lemon zest and blueberries for a spring-inspired version.
How to Serve German Pancakes
German Pancakes are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve them hot with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a side of fresh berries.
- Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, or a fruit compote.
- Savory Meals: Turn them into a savory dish by omitting sugar and topping with sautéed vegetables or a fried egg.
How to Store and Reheat German Pancakes
Although German Pancakes are best enjoyed fresh, you can store and reheat them:
- Storing: Let the pancake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain some crispness. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 30 seconds, though this may soften the texture.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Why didn’t my German Pancake puff up?
A: Common reasons include a cold pan, insufficiently beaten eggs, or opening the oven door too early. Preheating the pan and blending the batter thoroughly can help.
Q: Can I make German Pancakes without a cast-iron skillet?
A: Absolutely! You can use any oven-safe baking dish, such as a glass or ceramic pie dish.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: While the batter is best used immediately, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Store it in the fridge and whisk again before pouring into the hot pan.
Q: Are German Pancakes gluten-free?
A: Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends for a similar texture.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just use a larger baking dish or divide the batter between two pans. Be mindful of oven space to ensure even baking.
German Pancakes
German Pancakes - These airy, puffed pancakes are made with basic pantry staples like eggs, milk, flour, and butter. With their golden-brown exterior and custard-like center, they’re a true treat for a cozy family breakfast or a festive holiday brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Dash of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 5 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prep the Pan: Place 5 tablespoons of butter in an ungreased 9x13-inch metal baking dish. Pop the dish in the oven just until the butter melts.
- Blend the Batter: In a blender, combine eggs, milk, flour, salt, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter over the melted butter in the hot baking dish. Bake for 22-27 minutes, or until the edges are puffed and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar and drizzle with syrup. Slice and serve immediately!
Nutrition Information
Yield
5Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 305Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 258mgSodium 231mgCarbohydrates 22gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 12g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
German Pancakes are a delightful addition to your recipe repertoire. Their simplicity, versatility, and dramatic presentation make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore creative variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
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