Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby.
Imagine waking up to a warm, fluffy pancake that’s both comforting and indulgent. Enter the Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby, a delightful twist on the classic German pancake that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With its beautifully puffed edges and a soft, custardy center, this Dutch baby is a showstopper that will impress your family and friends. Topped with a luscious homemade strawberry jam, it’s a sweet way to start your day.
This recipe combines fresh strawberries with a touch of maple syrup and lemon juice, resulting in a vibrant topping that perfectly complements the airy pancake. So, let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this dish and how to create it in your own kitchen.
Reasons to Love Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby.
- Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together quickly, meaning you can whip it up even on a busy morning.
- Versatile Topping: While strawberries shine in this recipe, you can easily switch things up with your favorite fruits.
- Impressive Presentation: The dramatic rise of the Dutch baby makes for a stunning centerpiece on your breakfast table.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves several people, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
- Customizable: You can adjust sweetness and flavors to suit your taste, ensuring everyone enjoys it.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start cooking, here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Fresh Strawberries: 6 cups, sliced. Look for ripe, sweet strawberries for the best flavor.
- Maple Syrup: 1/3 to 1/2 cup for sweetness. Pure maple syrup adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Lemon Juice: 2 teaspoons to brighten the strawberry mixture.
- Vanilla Bean Powder: 1 teaspoon (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract) for a warm aroma.
- Salted Butter: 4 tablespoons, plus more for serving. Butter creates a rich, flavorful base.
- Large Eggs: 4, at room temperature. This helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
- Whole Milk: 2/3 cup, at room temperature for a creamy batter.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2/3 cup to give structure to the pancake.
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons for added flavor.
Recommended Tools
- Oven-Safe Skillet: A cast-iron or oven-safe skillet is essential for creating that puffy effect.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk: To mix the batter smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Spatula: For serving and spreading the strawberry jam.
Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby.: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and slicing your fresh strawberries. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/3 to 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean powder. Gently toss everything together and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that beautiful puffiness in your Dutch baby.
Step 3: Melt the Butter
In your oven-safe skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is bubbling and slightly browned, which will add a nutty flavor to your Dutch baby.
Step 4: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and 2/3 cup of whole milk until well combined. Then, add 2/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 5: Combine and Cook
Pour the batter into the hot skillet with the melted butter. Immediately transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove your Dutch baby from the oven. It will deflate slightly, creating a perfect well for your strawberry jam. Serve warm, topped generously with the fresh strawberry mixture and additional butter if desired.
Seasonal Twists
Want to switch it up? Here are some ideas to give your Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby a seasonal twist:
- Spring: Use fresh rhubarb along with strawberries for a tart contrast.
- Summer: Mix in blueberries or peaches for a vibrant fruit medley.
- Fall: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and use apples for a cozy autumn vibe.
- Winter: Serve with a warm spiced berry compote for a comforting treat.
Method to the Madness
The beauty of the Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby lies in its simplicity. The batter is a basic blend of eggs, milk, flour, and a touch of sweetness. When baked in a hot skillet, the heat causes the batter to puff dramatically, creating a stunning visual. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a burst of flavor and color, making this dish not only delicious but visually appealing.
The combination of maple syrup and lemon juice in the strawberry topping balances sweetness with a hint of acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This Dutch baby is a canvas for creativity, allowing you to personalize it with various toppings or fruit combinations.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store them:
- Storing: Place any leftover Dutch baby in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the texture may not be as fluffy.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why did my Dutch baby not puff up?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated and that the skillet is hot enough before adding the batter. The dramatic rise is created by the steam from the batter, so it needs that initial heat.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy topping.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
You can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives, but keep in mind that they may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust to taste.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the pan.
Keep Cooking
If you love this recipe for Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby, here are some more delicious treats to try:
- Apple Strawberry Smoothie – A refreshing blend that’s perfect for breakfast.
- Berry Upside Down Cake – A delightful dessert featuring mixed berries.
- Grape Jelly Recipe – Perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts.
Make It Tonight
With its mouthwatering flavor and stunning presentation, the Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby is a must-try. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday, this dish brings joy to any meal. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress everyone at the breakfast table. Your taste buds will thank you!
Hot Strawberry Jam Dutch Baby.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries. Combine sliced strawberries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla bean powder in a bowl. Toss and set aside.
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 3: Melt the Butter. In an oven-safe skillet, melt salted butter over medium heat until bubbling and slightly browned.
- Step 4: Make the Batter. Whisk together eggs and milk, then add flour, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Step 5: Combine and Cook. Pour batter into the hot skillet, then transfer to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Remove from oven, serve warm topped with the strawberry mixture and additional butter if desired.
Notes
- For a different flavor, swap strawberries with your favorite fruits.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
