Dutch Baby Recipe
There’s something magical about a Dutch Baby. This delightful German pancake puffs up in the oven, creating a fluffy, golden-brown treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. It’s easy to prepare, fun to watch as it rises, and absolutely delicious when topped with your favorite fruits, syrups, or simply a dusting of powdered sugar. This Dutch Baby Recipe utilizes simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making it an accessible choice for any home cook.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Dutch Baby Recipe is reliable for several reasons. First, it uses straightforward ingredients that come together quickly. Second, the process is simple, allowing even novice cooks to create a stunning pancake without the stress. The balance of eggs, milk, and flour ensures a perfect rise, while the butter adds flavor and richness. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or a regular morning, this recipe guarantees an impressive and delicious result every time.
Ingredient List
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar + extra for topping
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Hardware & Gadgets
- Oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Serving plate
Method: Dutch Baby Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your oven-safe skillet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt. Whisk them together until they are well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add 6 tablespoons of the unsalted butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt completely and coat the bottom and sides.
Step 4: Bake the Dutch Baby
Pour the batter into the skillet over the melted butter. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven during baking, as this may cause it to deflate.
Step 5: Serve
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. The pancake will be puffy and may start to deflate slightly as it cools. Dust with extra granulated sugar or powdered sugar, and serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream.
Texture-Safe Substitutions

- Gluten-free flour blend for all-purpose flour
- Almond milk or oat milk for whole milk
- Maple syrup or honey for granulated sugar
- Egg substitutes (flax eggs or applesauce) for large eggs
Cook’s Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the batter; this helps create that lovely puffiness.
- The Dutch Baby is best served immediately after baking for optimal texture.
- Feel free to experiment with toppings! Berries, bananas, and citrus are all great options.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
The Dutch Baby is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To rewarm, place the Dutch Baby in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Common Qs About Dutch Baby Recipe
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to make the batter fresh for optimal puffiness, you can prepare it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before pouring it into the hot skillet.
Why did my Dutch Baby not puff up?
There are a few reasons this could happen: the oven wasn’t hot enough, the skillet wasn’t hot enough, or the batter was overmixed. Make sure both the oven and the skillet are preheated thoroughly before pouring in the batter.
Can I use a different type of pan?
You can use other oven-safe pans, but keep in mind that a cast-iron skillet provides the best results in terms of heat retention and even cooking. Baking in a non-stick or glass dish may yield different results.
What toppings are best for a Dutch Baby?
Popular toppings include fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or peaches, a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Because You Liked This
The Last Word
This Dutch Baby Recipe is more than just a pancake; it’s an experience. The moment you take it out of the oven and see it soaring high, your heart will be filled with delight. Whether you decide to keep it simple with a sprinkle of sugar or go all out with fresh toppings, this recipe is sure to impress anyone at your table. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to indulge in a fluffy, delicious Dutch Baby that will make your breakfast or brunch unforgettable. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

Dutch Baby Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar + extra for topping
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
Instructions
Method: Dutch Baby Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your oven-safe skillet inside the oven while it heats to get it nice and hot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt. Whisk them together until they are well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add 6 tablespoons of the unsalted butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt completely and coat the bottom and sides.
- Pour the batter into the skillet over the melted butter. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is puffed up and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven during baking, as this may cause it to deflate.
- Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. The pancake will be puffy and may start to deflate slightly as it cools. Dust with extra granulated sugar or powdered sugar, and serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream.
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet (cast iron works best)
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Spatula
- Serving Plate
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the batter to achieve the best puffiness.
- Serve immediately after baking for optimal texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and rewarm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
- Try different toppings like berries, bananas, or whipped cream for variety.

