German Pancakes, also known as Dutch Baby Pancakes, are a classic breakfast that we’ve made since we were little. Over the years, they have become a breakfast staple in our home for holidays, weekends, and more.

They’re made from a simple batter that puffs up dramatically in the oven. The result is a golden, buttery pancake with crisp edges and a soft, custardy center.

This easy recipe is made with just 5 ingredients and takes only minutes to prepare. It’s a breakfast that feels fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make. We love to top them off with Buttermilk Syrup, Homemade Maple Syrup over the top and adding fresh berries and Whipped Cream.

You’ll love how quick and yummy these pancakes are! For more favorite pancakes, check out our Easy Pancake Recipe, Buttermilk Pancakes, and Fluffy Pancakes.

Why we think you’ll love it:

  • They’re quick! From start to finish, they’re ready in under 30 minutes.
  • A super simple breakfast. Make these with just a few pantry staples. Elevate breakfast without having to plan ahead!
  • Great for busy days. Whether it’s weekends or holidays like Christmas, this quick breakfast recipe is perfect for hectic days.
German pancakes recipe ingredients on countertop.

German Pancakes Ingredients

  • Butter (5 tablespoons): Adds richness and prevents the pancake from sticking while giving it a golden, crisp edge.
  • Eggs (6 large): Help the pancake rise and create a light, custardy texture. Room temp eggs work best.
  • All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure for the batter.
  • Milk (1 cup): Thins the batter and adds creaminess.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
  • toppings (optional) – We like to add powdered sugar, Whipped Cream, Buttermilk Syrup, Maple Syrup, sliced strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or raspberries

How to Make German Pancakes

PREP. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Melt butter in a 9×13-inch casserole dish in the warm oven.

BATTER. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and flour until clumps are gone.

  • Add milk and salt and blend until combined (this can also be mixed in the blender to avoid clumps).
Melted butter and German pancake batter in a white baking dish.

BAKE. Pour batter into the pan of melted butter. Bake for 16–20 minutes. The sides should be golden brown.

  • The sides will be overflowing and fluffy, but will come down a bit once the pan is removed from the oven.

ENJOY! Serve the German pancakes immediately with your toppings of choice – syrup, cinnamon sugar, a dusting of powdered sugar, or whatever sounds great to you!

  • Preheat your pan with butter in the oven so the batter puffs beautifully.
  • Use room-temperature eggs and milk for better rise.
  • Do not over-mix the batter; a few small lumps are fine.
  • Serve immediately since the pancake will deflate slightly after baking.
  • Add toppings quickly while warm. Some of our favorite toppings include powdered sugar, berries, buttermilk syrup or maple syrup.
A slice of German pancakes on a white plate.
German pancakes recipe puffed up in baking dish.
4.98 from 162 votes

German Pancakes Recipe

Light, fluffy, eggy German pancakes are a family favorite. They're EASY to make, and use 5 simple ingredients!
Servings: 8
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 25 minutes

Video

Ingredients 

  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions 

  • Preheat the oven to 450°F.
  • Melt butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish in the warming oven
  • In a medium bowl, whisk eggs. Whisk in flour until clumps are gone.
  • Add milk and salt and whisk until combined (this can also be mixed in the blender to avoid clumps).
  • Pour batter into the pan of melted butter. Bake for 16–20 minutes. The sides will be overflowing and fluffy, but will come down a bit once the pan is removed from the oven.
  • Serve immediately with your toppings of choice.
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Notes

Recipe tips.
  • There are lots of different toppings you can try! We like to top ours with fruit, powdered sugar, and buttermilk syrup.
  • For the fluffiest pancakes. Use the freshest eggs possible and add eggs, one at a time, whisking for 30 seconds after each egg.
  • Using room temperature eggs and milk helps create a smoother batter that rises better and more evenly. 
  • Resist the urge to open the oven door as it can cause the pancake to deflate.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, or wrap each piece with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe airtight container, then freeze for 1-2 months. Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g, Calories: 185kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 3g, Trans Fat: 0.3g, Cholesterol: 145mg, Sodium: 205mg, Potassium: 110mg, Fiber: 0.4g, Sugar: 2g, Vitamin A: 446IU, Calcium: 61mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Recipe FAQ

How to store?

Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or wrap each piece with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe airtight container, then freeze for 1-2 months. Reheat in the oven, toaster oven, or microwave.

This recipe was originally published December 2015.

About Kristyn

Kristyn Merkley is a published cookbook author, wife, mom of six, and major food enthusiast! For the past 15 years, she has been sharing foolproof, family-friendly recipes—each one tested in her kitchen—that anyone can master. As a seasoned recipe creator, she loves making cooking simple, stress-free, and totally doable for everyone!

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4.98 from 162 votes (87 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




132 Comments

  1. Kellie H says:

    5 stars
    I’m a huge fan of German Pancakes and this is the most fool-proof recipe around.

  2. Anna says:

    5 stars
    We loved this baked pancake! So fun to make and eat!

  3. Erin says:

    5 stars
    These are a must for weekends – so good!

  4. Courtney says:

    5 stars
    Yum! I love these, so delish and family fave!

  5. Joy says:

    5 stars
    My family loves German pancakes! They are a nice change from the regular breakfast recipes. They are so light & fluffy!

  6. Charity says:

    5 stars
    Didn’t know there were so many versions of pancakes. More butter sounds good to me!

  7. Misty says:

    5 stars
    LOVe These and so does the family!! We like to make them for dinner TOo!

  8. Dermacol India says:

    5 stars
    Really Very Tasty Breakfast Recipe I am very happy to be here and get this awesome RECIPE 🙂

    1. Kristyn Merkley says:

      I am happy you got it!! Thank you so much!

  9. Sheweta sinha says:

    5 stars
    I loved your GERMAN PANCAKES recipe. I was awesome i become a fan of yours AFTER THIS.

  10. Nicole M Hecker says:

    5 stars
    Absolutely amazing! Exast and delicious!!

    1. Kristyn Merkley says:

      Thank you so much for letting me know 🙂 I am so glad you think so!