Mini German Pancakes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~210 kcal

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Introduction

If you’ve ever wanted a breakfast that feels both elegant and indulgent, Mini German Pancakes are the perfect choice. Known for their light, airy texture and slightly crisp edges, these individual-sized Dutch pancakes make breakfast feel like a special occasion, without requiring hours of preparation.

Unlike traditional pancakes, German pancakes (also called Dutch pancakes or Dutch babies) are baked rather than fried. This method ensures a fluffy, custardy center with edges that rise dramatically in the oven, giving them a stunning presentation. The mini version is perfect for portion control, family breakfasts, brunch parties, or even dessert with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh fruit.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.

• Impressive presentation: Each pancake puffs up beautifully, making breakfast feel special.

• Customizable toppings: Fresh berries, powdered sugar, syrup, or lemon juice.

• Family-friendly: Perfect for kids or serving a brunch crowd.

• Minimal ingredients: Just a few staple pantry items are needed.

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Ingredients

Batter Ingredients

• 3 large eggs

• ¾ cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Topping Suggestions

• Powdered sugar

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• Maple syrup or honey

• Lemon wedges

• Cinnamon sugar (optional)

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Equipment Needed

• 8-cup muffin tin or mini skillet

• Whisk or hand mixer

• Mixing bowls

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Oven

• Rubber spatula or spoon

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Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1: Preheat the Oven (5 minutes)

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the muffin tin or mini skillets in the oven while it heats — preheating the pans ensures the butter melts evenly and helps the pancakes rise dramatically.

Intensity Level: Low – Simple preheating, but don’t skip this step for best results.

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Step 2: Prepare the Batter (5 minutes)

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and free of lumps. The batter should be thin, similar to heavy cream.

Stir in melted butter, making sure it’s fully incorporated.

Intensity Level: Low – Just whisking, easy and straightforward.

Pro Tip: Overmixing can develop gluten and make the pancakes less tender. Whisk until just combined.

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Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Tin (2 minutes)

Carefully remove the preheated muffin tin from the oven. Add a small 1 teaspoon of butter to each cup, swirling to coat evenly. The hot butter ensures the edges of each pancake crisp beautifully.

Intensity Level: Moderate – Hot pans require caution to avoid burns.

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Step 4: Fill the Cups (2 minutes)

Pour batter evenly into each prepared muffin cup, filling them about ¾ full. The batter will puff dramatically in the oven, so don’t overfill.

Intensity Level: Low – Pouring evenly is simple but important for uniform cooking.

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Step 5: Bake the Mini Pancakes (12–15 minutes)

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and puffed up, and the centers are set.

Avoid opening the oven door during baking — sudden temperature changes can cause the pancakes to collapse.

Intensity Level: Low – Baking is mostly passive; the magic happens in the oven.

Fun Fact: German pancakes rise thanks to the steam in the batter, creating dramatic, fluffy edges.

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Step 6: Cool Slightly and Remove (2 minutes)

Allow the mini pancakes to cool for 2–3 minutes in the tin. Carefully run a butter knife around the edges to loosen them, then gently lift them out.

Serve immediately while warm for maximum puffiness and crisp edges.

Intensity Level: Low – Gentle handling ensures your pancakes don’t break.

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Serving Suggestions

Mini German Pancakes are versatile and can be dressed up or kept simple:

• Classic: Dust with powdered sugar and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

• Berry Bliss: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.

• Maple Magic: Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for a sweet finish.

• Dessert Version: Add whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Tip: For a brunch spread, serve with a variety of toppings in small bowls so guests can customize their pancakes.

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Tips for Perfect Mini German Pancakes

1. Use room-temperature eggs and milk for a lighter batter.

2. Preheat the pan — it’s the secret to dramatic puffiness.

3. Don’t overfill the muffin cups; the pancakes will rise.

4. Serve immediately — the edges begin to deflate as they cool.

5. Experiment with flavors: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the batter.

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Variations

• Chocolate Mini German Pancakes: Add 1–2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the batter.

• Savory Mini Pancakes: Omit sugar and vanilla, add shredded cheese and herbs.

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with a flax egg mixture and use plant-based milk and butter.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Reheat: Microwave for 20–30 seconds or reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

• Note: Mini German pancakes are best served fresh, as they lose their dramatic puffiness when cooled.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Values are approximate and depend on ingredients used and serving size.

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Intensity Breakdown

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Cultural Note

Mini German Pancakes are a modern twist on the classic Dutch Baby Pancake, which originated from German immigrants in the U.S. These pancakes became popular in the early 20th century and were originally baked in cast-iron skillets. Making them mini-sized makes them perfect for individual servings, brunch parties, or as a fun breakfast for kids.

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Final Thoughts

Mini German Pancakes are a breakfast showstopper. With their puffed edges, tender centers, and endless topping possibilities, they are guaranteed to impress guests and delight family members. They combine the comfort of homemade pancakes with a visually stunning presentation.