German pancakes, known for their light, airy texture, are a delightful breakfast or brunch treat that’s simple to make with just a handful of ingredients. This recipe results in a wonderfully fluffy, eggy pancake that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

German pancakes are the perfect choice for a breakfast or brunch that feels special but doesn’t require much effort. They are baked in the oven, which means no standing over a hot stove flipping individual pancakes. The result is a deliciously fluffy, eggy pancake that puffs up in the oven and makes a fantastic base for a variety of toppings. Plus, you can whip this up in just 25 minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk

• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F.

2. Melt the butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish by placing it in the oven as it preheats.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the flour and whisk until there are no clumps.

4. Stir in the milk and salt, and continue whisking until fully combined. (If you prefer a smoother batter, you can mix everything in a blender to avoid clumps.)

5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish with the melted butter.

6. Bake for 16-20 minutes, until the edges are puffy and golden. The pancake will deflate a little after removing it from the oven.

7. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings, such as powdered sugar, syrup, or fresh fruit.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Toppings: Add fresh berries or sautéed apples for a fruity twist.

• Flavor Add-ins: Mix a little cinnamon or vanilla extract into the batter for extra flavor.

• Sweet Sauces: Serve with buttermilk syrup, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch.

• Savory Version: Try adding cooked sausage crumbles to the batter for a savory take.

Storage/Reheating

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Simply cover them with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.

• For longer storage, wrap each piece individually with plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for 1-2 months.

• To reheat, warm the pancakes in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I make German pancakes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Simply bake the pancakes when you’re ready to serve them.

2. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) in this recipe. Just be aware that the texture might slightly change depending on the milk you use.

3. What should I serve with German pancakes?

You can top your German pancakes with anything you like—fruit, syrup, whipped cream, or even savory options like scrambled eggs.

4. Can I freeze German pancakes?

Yes! Let the pancakes cool completely, then wrap each serving in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.

5. Why are my German pancakes not puffing up?

Ensure that the oven is fully preheated before placing the pan inside. Opening the oven door during baking can also cause the pancakes to deflate prematurely.

6. How can I make German pancakes fluffier?

Use fresh eggs and make sure they are at room temperature. This helps the batter rise more evenly. Also, try adding eggs one at a time and whisking for 30 seconds after each egg for extra fluffiness.

7. Can I make this recipe in a different pan?

Yes, you can use a cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe baking dish. Just ensure that the pan is preheated with the butter as directed.

8. Can I add vanilla to the batter?

Absolutely! A teaspoon of vanilla extract can add a lovely flavor to your German pancakes.

9. How can I prevent the pancake from deflating too much?

Try not to open the oven door until the pancake is fully baked. The steam inside helps keep the pancake fluffy.

10. Can I use a hand mixer instead of whisking by hand?

Yes, a hand mixer will work well for combining the ingredients and creating a smooth batter.

Conclusion

German pancakes are a simple, delicious breakfast that is as impressive as it is easy to make. Whether you’re serving them with sweet toppings or adding a savory twist, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With just five ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a light, fluffy pancake that’s perfect for any occasion!