German Pancake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: German

German Pancakes are a delightful breakfast treat that puff up in the oven, creating a light and airy texture. With a sweet vanilla flavor and buttery richness, they are perfect for serving with fresh fruit or syrup. Ideal for family brunches or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 6 eggs
  • 3/4 c. flour
  • 3/4 c. milk
  • 1/3 c. sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 4 Tbsp. butter or margarine

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°.
  2. Blend all ingredients together and pour into a 10-inch skillet (cast-iron preferred).
  3. Prepare the skillet by smearing 4 tablespoons of butter all around the inside.
  4. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a fluffier texture, separate the egg whites and yolks, beating the whites until stiff peaks form. Then fold them in gently with the other ingredients. You can substitute almond milk for a dairy-free version or use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the flavor, making it a delightful pairing for your breakfast table.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your German pancake dusted with powdered sugar, fresh fruits like berries or bananas, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful breakfast. It pairs beautifully with chocolate brandy fondue for a unique dessert twist or can be enjoyed with a side of yogurt for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, but this may lose some texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of German Pancake contains roughly 474 calories, with 7g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1894mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).

474 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7g 14% DV
Total Fat 3.8g 5% DV
Carbs 78.7g 29% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 7.5g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1893.7mg 82% DV
Potassium 526.1mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 116.6mg 39% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 35.4mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 28mg 31% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 145mg 11% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, give it a quick stir and pour it into the prepared skillet. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake it fresh.

What should I do if my pancake doesn't rise?

If using a different pan, make sure it's oven-safe and ideally preheated as well to achieve the desired puffiness.

Can I add ingredients like cheese or vegetables?

While the traditional German pancake is sweet, you can certainly experiment with savory versions. Adding cheese, sautéed spinach, or even cooked bacon can create a delightful brunch option. Just be mindful of the moisture content to maintain the batter's consistency.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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