Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe

Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon confectioner's sugar (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (or to taste)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 450F (230C). Place a large cast iron skillet in the oven while its preheating.
  2. Add the butter to the skillet a few minutes before the oven is fully preheated, allowing it to melt.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Then, add the eggs and continue whisking. The batter may be slightly lumpy, which is normal.
  4. Once the skillet is hot, carefully remove it from the oven and pour the batter into the skillet over the melted butter.
  5. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oven and, while still warm, dust the top with confectioner's sugar and cinnamon to your preference.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories 434
Total Fat 29g
Saturated Fat 17g
Cholesterol 252mg
Sodium 283mg
Total Carbohydrate 31g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Total Sugars 7g
Protein 12g
Calcium 116mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 196mg

Servings Per Recipe: 2

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Baked Skillet Pancake is a delightful twist on the traditional pancake, offering a warm, fluffy, and slightly crispy treat that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. This dish is often associated with hearty, comforting American breakfasts and is loved for its simplicity and the ease with which it can be prepared. Unlike regular pancakes, which are fried one by one on a skillet, this version is baked, allowing for a unique texture and flavor that distinguishes it from its more common counterparts.

History of the Baked Skillet Pancake

The origins of the Baked Skillet Pancake can be traced back to the Dutch Baby pancake, a popular American dish that is believed to have been created in the early 20th century. This style of pancake was introduced by a German immigrant to the Pacific Northwest in the United States. The recipe, which involves baking a pancake in a hot skillet, became a popular breakfast item because of its fluffy, light texture and ease of preparation. The Baked Skillet Pancake is a variation of the Dutch Baby, retaining the technique of baking in a cast-iron skillet, but with slight modifications to the ingredients and serving style.

Regional Variations

Although the Baked Skillet Pancake is enjoyed across the United States, there are some regional variations that make this dish special. In the Pacific Northwest, where the Dutch Baby originated, it is often served with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even maple syrup. In contrast, in other parts of the country, the Baked Skillet Pancake might be dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon, giving it a sweet and comforting flavor profile. It is common to find variations that incorporate different spices or even savory ingredients such as cheese and herbs, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

What Sets the Baked Skillet Pancake Apart?

The Baked Skillet Pancake differs from traditional pancakes in several key ways. First, instead of being cooked on a griddle, this pancake is baked in a hot skillet, creating a crispy edge and a soft, airy interior. The baking method ensures that the pancake puffs up significantly during cooking, creating a dramatic rise and a texture that is unlike any other pancake. Furthermore, the Baked Skillet Pancake often features more butter in the batter, contributing to its rich, indulgent flavor. The cinnamon and powdered sugar topping adds a delightful sweetness that enhances its appeal.

Where is the Baked Skillet Pancake Usually Served?

This dish is commonly served at breakfast or brunch in American homes and restaurants. It is often featured in places that specialize in comfort food or rustic cooking, particularly in diners or family-style eateries. Due to its visual appeal, it is often served in cast-iron skillets, making for a charming presentation. The Baked Skillet Pancake is perfect for casual get-togethers, holiday brunches, or even as a special weekend treat with the family.

Interesting Facts About the Baked Skillet Pancake

  • The Baked Skillet Pancake is often referred to as a "Dutch Baby" in some regions of the United States, though the term can also apply to slightly different variations of baked pancakes.
  • It is one of the few pancake recipes that can be baked all at once, eliminating the need for flipping individual pancakes, making it an easy-to-make dish for large families or gatherings.
  • The pancakes dramatic rise in the oven is a result of the eggs and milk in the batter, which create air bubbles that expand during baking, giving the pancake its characteristic puffed-up look.
  • Although it is traditionally served sweet, savory versions of the Baked Skillet Pancake exist, with ingredients such as cheese, herbs, and bacon incorporated into the batter.

Whether you enjoy it sweet or savory, the Baked Skillet Pancake remains a beloved breakfast option, bringing comfort and warmth to the start of any day.

FAQ about Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, it is recommended to make the batter fresh before baking.

Yes, you can freeze the pancake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

While a cast-iron skillet works best due to its heat retention, you can use any oven-safe skillet. Just make sure it's large enough to hold the batter and preheat it before adding the ingredients.

You can get creative with toppings! Try fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of honey. You can also add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less powdered sugar to the batter. You can also use a different sweetener like honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup depending on your taste preferences.

If you find the pancake too greasy, you can reduce the amount of butter in the recipe. Try using about 2 tablespoons of butter instead of 4, or substitute some of the butter with a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of oil.

If your pancake is undercooked, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes. You can cover the top loosely with foil to prevent it from getting too brown while the center finishes cooking.

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check if the blend you're using contains xanthan gum, as this helps with texture and structure.

Comments

SpryPan2637

06/29/2025 07:04:14 PM

I make 1.5 recipes for my hubby & me in an iron braiser pan. It’s the perfect size - pancake raises beautifully, however takes 20-25minutes to brown beautifully. I add a dash of salt, a few drops of almond extract, & generous cinnamon in the batter. I still sprinkle with powdered sugar & more cinnamon on top. It’s our favorite baked pancake.

Lisa Phillips

02/27/2025 06:29:54 PM

I’m genuinely impressed by how easy it was.

Yoly

11/13/2023 05:07:11 PM

This is a Dutch Baby and no way does it taste like elephant ears! It was tasty but 4 tbs of butter made it extremely greasy with the butter pooling on the top.