This Dutch Baby is the epitome of comfort, with its pillowy texture and lightly golden crust. Its effortless elegance makes it the perfect breakfast treat for a special occasion or a simple weekend brunch. Topped with maple whipped cream and fresh berries, every bite is an explosion of flavor and sweetness.
Baking this dish might seem intimidating, but it’s a breeze. With just a few pantry staples and a cast iron skillet, you can create a dish that looks like it came from a fancy brunch spot. The dramatic rise and soft, buttery center make this Dutch Baby truly unforgettable.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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5 large eggs
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1⅓ cups whole milk
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1¼ cups (156 g) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ cup plus 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup (plus more for serving)
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1¾ tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt or 1 tsp Morton kosher salt, divided
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3 Tbsp unsalted butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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6 oz fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and/or halved strawberries; about 1½ cups)
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Directions:
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Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10″ cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat for 10 minutes.
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Blend eggs in a blender on medium-high speed until frothy, about 2 minutes. Add milk, flour, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and kosher salt. Blend on medium speed until smooth, about 30 seconds. Set aside.
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Remove the heated skillet from the oven. Add butter, swirling to coat the bottom and sides. Carefully pour in the batter and bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
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Whisk heavy cream, maple syrup, and remaining kosher salt until soft peaks form, about 2 minutes.
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Top Dutch baby with whipped cream and fresh berries. Drizzle with additional maple syrup if desired.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 355 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
The Dutch Baby with Maple Whipped Cream: A Breakfast Delight
The Dutch Baby, also known as a German pancake, is a delightful, decadent breakfast dish that has won the hearts of many brunch lovers. This impressive recipe is often mistaken for a labor-intensive dish, but in reality, it is incredibly simple to prepare, making it the perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Its light, fluffy, and slightly crispy texture, topped with maple whipped cream and fresh berries, is a combination of flavors that will surely leave everyone craving more.
The Origins of the Dutch Baby
Though the dish is called a “Dutch Baby,” its roots are tied to German cuisine. The name is a playful Americanization of the term “Dutch” (meaning “German” in the 19th century American vernacular) and “baby” likely refers to its smaller, individual size compared to traditional pancakes. The dish, often confused with a popover or Yorkshire pudding, is baked in a cast-iron skillet, where the batter puffs up dramatically in the oven.
The Dutch Baby became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, thanks to a Seattle-based restaurant, The Pancake House, which introduced the dish to a wider audience in the 1960s. Over the years, its reputation as a visually striking and delicious breakfast has continued to grow. Today, Dutch Babies are a brunch favorite, often found on restaurant menus and gracing family tables during weekend mornings.
The Perfect Dutch Baby: Why It’s So Special
The beauty of the Dutch Baby lies in its simplicity. Unlike traditional pancakes, which require flipping, the Dutch Baby bakes in a hot oven, allowing the batter to rise and form a golden, puffy edge while remaining tender and moist in the center. The high heat from the oven, combined with the butter, creates an airy texture and crispy edges that contrast perfectly with its soft, melt in your mouth interior.
What makes this dish truly special, however, is its versatility. You can experiment with various toppings, from fresh fruit and whipped cream to a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of syrup. The addition of maple whipped cream elevates this recipe, providing a rich, creamy sweetness that complements the pancake’s delicate flavor.
Another reason this dish is adored is its ability to be prepared with minimal effort. Unlike pancakes, which require multiple rounds of cooking and attention, the Dutch Baby is baked all at once. This means less hands-on time and more time to enjoy your morning coffee or tea. The use of common pantry ingredients like eggs, flour, milk, and sugar makes it a practical option for a quick yet indulgent breakfast.
Tips for Making the Perfect Dutch Baby
Although the recipe for a Dutch Baby is simple, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to achieve the perfect result every time:
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Preheat the Pan: The key to achieving the signature puff of a Dutch Baby is to preheat the skillet in the oven before pouring in the batter. This ensures that the batter immediately starts cooking upon contact with the hot surface, creating the beautiful rise that characterizes this dish. Cast-iron skillets are ideal for this purpose as they retain heat well and provide an even cooking surface.
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Blend the Batter Well: For the Dutch Baby to rise properly, the batter needs to be smooth and well-blended. Using a blender helps to break up any lumps and ensures a consistent texture. Be sure to blend the batter for long enough so that the ingredients are fully incorporated.
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Don’t Open the Oven Door: Once the batter is in the oven, resist the urge to open the oven door. The temperature needs to stay constant for the Dutch Baby to puff up properly. Opening the door can cause the temperature to drop, which may result in a flatter pancake.
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Watch the Timing: The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the Dutch Baby as it bakes. It should be golden brown on top and slightly puffed around the edges. If it begins to deflate after baking, don’t worry it’s perfectly normal!
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Topping It Off: The maple whipped cream is a show-stopping addition to this dish. The lightly sweetened whipped cream, infused with pure maple syrup, complements the pancake’s soft texture. Top the Dutch Baby with a generous amount of whipped cream and fresh berries for a burst of color and added flavor. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with more maple syrup before serving.
Variations of the Dutch Baby
While the classic Dutch Baby with maple whipped cream and fresh berries is hard to beat, there are many ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
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Savory Dutch Baby: For a savory twist, omit the maple syrup and top the Dutch Baby with sautéed vegetables, cheese, and even a fried egg. Spinach, mushrooms, and cheese make for a delicious combination, while bacon or sausage can add a hearty touch. This variation makes for a satisfying brunch option that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes.
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Vegan Dutch Baby: For those following a plant based diet, it’s possible to make a vegan version of the Dutch Baby by substituting eggs with a flaxseed mixture or chickpea flour, and using plant-based milk and butter. Instead of whipped cream, you can top the pancake with dairy-free whipped cream or even a scoop of coconut yogurt for added richness.
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Flavored Dutch Baby: Spice up the batter with a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. These flavors can complement the maple syrup and fresh fruit, creating a warm, aromatic breakfast experience.
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Fruit Variations: While berries are a classic topping, feel free to experiment with different fruits depending on the season. Sautéed apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon can add a warm, autumnal touch. You can also top the Dutch Baby with caramelized bananas or citrus segments for a refreshing twist.
Why You Should Try Making It
If you’re looking to shake up your usual breakfast routine and impress your family or friends, the Dutch Baby is a must-try dish. Not only is it easy to make and visually stunning, but it’s also a highly customizable recipe that can be made to suit any taste. The combination of a fluffy, airy pancake with rich maple whipped cream and fresh berries is truly irresistible.
Moreover, the Dutch Baby can be made in advance for a quick breakfast option or prepared as a show-stopping brunch centerpiece. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a special occasion, or a gathering of friends and family, this recipe is sure to leave everyone satisfied.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Dutch Baby with Maple Whipped Cream is a breakfast or brunch recipe that perfectly combines simplicity and elegance. Its origins may be rooted in German cuisine, but its popularity today transcends borders and has captured the hearts of breakfast lovers everywhere. With its dramatic rise, soft texture, and versatility, it’s easy to see why this dish continues to be a beloved staple.
So, the next time you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to something special, consider baking a Dutch Baby. Whether you keep it classic or explore creative variations, this dish will undoubtedly elevate your morning and bring smiles to the table.
Let this be your new go-to recipe for weekends, holidays, or any time you want to indulge in a delicious breakfast. The Dutch Baby is more than just a pancake it’s an experience that will leave everyone talking about how wonderful breakfast can be!