If you're hosting a crowd for brunch, try making German pancakes. This easy recipe serves 8 without the need for standing over the stove or flipping. Here's how to make German pancakes at home, including our Test Kitchen's favorite ways to top them.

What Are German Pancakes?

German pancakes, also known as a Dutch Baby, are baked in the oven rather than being cooked on the stovetop. As they bake, they puff up and become golden. The texture is similar to a Yorkshire pudding or popover.

What Is a German Pancake Made Of?

Many of the ingredients you need to make classic pancakes are here. Here's a quick look at what you'll need to make this German pancake recipe.

• Butter: You'll need 1/4 cup, or half a stick, of butter for this recipe. Melt it directly into the pan and mix up the rest of the ingredients for the batter.
• Eggs: Six large eggs are the key ingredient to this recipe. They help the pancake puff up and become almost souffle-like in the oven.
• Buttermilk: Our Test Kitchen likes to use buttermilk in this recipe, but you can also swap in regular milk.
• Flour: For the best results, use all-purpose flour. There's no need to sift the flour first as its being blended in a blender.
• Salt: A pinch of salt helps round out the flavors.

What Toppings Are Good on German Pancakes?

There are so many ways to top a German pancake. Go the classic breakfast route with butter and maple syrup. Or, try fresh berries and whipped cream. You can also take the dish in a savory direction with sausage gravy and fried eggs on top.

Our recipe testers loved the combination of berries and a homemade lemon syrup. To make the syrup, combine sugar, butter, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a pan. Heat until the sugar is dissolved and store in the fridge.

How to Store German Pancakes

Allow German Pancake to cool to room temperature. Place in an airtight container or if freezing, wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator up to three days or label and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat pancake in the microwave 10 to 20 seconds or in a 350°F oven 10 to 15 minutes.