Description
Enjoy a deliciously savory Cheddar & Bacon Dutch Baby, a puffed oven-baked pancake with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh herbs. This cast-iron skillet dish offers a perfect balance of cheesy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, ideal for brunch or a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Batter
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon (cooked crisp and crumbled)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp chives (optional)
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp butter (for the skillet)
- Drizzle of honey or hot honey (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Place a 10–12 inch cast-iron skillet in the oven, then preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) so the skillet becomes very hot.
- Prepare Batter: In a blender, combine the eggs, all-purpose flour, whole milk, melted butter, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, then allow it to rest for 5 minutes to improve texture.
- Coat Skillet with Butter: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add 1 tablespoon of butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom and sides evenly to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Pour Batter and Add Toppings: Immediately pour the rested batter into the hot skillet, then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top to embed flavors.
- Bake: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the Dutch baby is puffed up and golden brown around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional chives. For an optional sweet-savory kick, drizzle honey or hot honey on top. Slice and serve warm directly from the skillet.
Notes
- Ensure the cast-iron skillet is very hot before adding the batter for maximum puffiness and rise.
- Customize toppings by experimenting with other herbs or cheeses to suit your taste.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture before it deflates and becomes less crispy.
