Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby

A spectacular puffed pancake that rises dramatically in the oven, creating crispy edges and a custardy center. Fresh blueberries and bright lemon make this an impressive brunch centerpiece that’s surprisingly simple to master.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Dutch Baby:

• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

For Serving:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh lemon juice
• Maple syrup
• Extra fresh blueberries
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare. Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan in the oven and preheat to 425°F. Let the pan heat for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the batter.
2. Create the silky batter. In a blender, combine eggs, milk, flour, sugar, vanilla, salt, and lemon zest. Blend on high speed for 60 seconds until completely smooth. Let batter rest for 5 minutes while the oven finishes heating.
3. Add the butter. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Add butter to the pan – it should sizzle and foam immediately. Tilt the pan to coat the bottom and sides evenly with melted butter.
4. Pour and scatter. Working quickly, pour the batter into the center of the hot, buttered pan. Immediately scatter fresh blueberries evenly across the surface. The batter should sizzle as it hits the pan.
5. Bake to golden perfection. Return to oven immediately and bake for 20-25 minutes until the Dutch baby is puffed high around the edges, golden brown, and set in the center. Don’t open the oven door during baking or it may deflate.
6. Serve immediately. Remove from oven and dust generously with powdered sugar. Cut into wedges and serve right away while still puffed, with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and extra blueberries on the side.

Tips for Success

Temperature matters: Room temperature eggs and milk create a smoother batter that rises better. Take them out 30 minutes before cooking.

Hot pan is key: The sizzling butter and hot pan create the steam needed for dramatic puffing. Never skip the preheating step.

Don’t peek: Opening the oven door causes temperature fluctuations that can make your Dutch baby collapse before it’s fully set.

Timing is everything: Serve immediately while still puffed and hot. The pancake will naturally deflate as it cools, but the flavor remains delicious.

Recipe Variations

Mixed Berry Medley: Replace blueberries with a combination of raspberries, blackberries, and sliced strawberries for varied flavors and colors.

Apple Cinnamon: Substitute diced apples and a pinch of cinnamon for the blueberries and lemon zest. Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the batter.

Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips instead of berries for a dessert-like breakfast treat that kids will love.

Savory Version: Omit sugar and vanilla, add herbs like chives or thyme, and top with sautéed vegetables or cheese.

Storage Instructions

Dutch babies are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat individual slices in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore some crispness.

The batter can be prepared the night before and stored covered in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature for 15 minutes before using.

Nutritional Highlights

This protein-rich breakfast provides complete proteins from eggs and calcium from milk. Fresh blueberries add antioxidants, vitamin C, and natural sweetness while keeping added sugars moderate.

Each serving contains approximately 285 calories with 12 grams of protein, making it a satisfying start to the day.

Serving Suggestions

Present this blueberry lemon Dutch baby as the star of your brunch table alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. Fresh fruit salad and Greek yogurt make excellent lighter accompaniments.

For special occasions, serve with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or whipped cream flavored with vanilla and lemon zest. A drizzle of warm berry compote transforms this simple dish into an elegant dessert-like experience that impresses every time.