This sourdough dutch baby pancake (also called a German pancake) is a skillet pancake that puffs in the hot oven making a lovely presentation. The family will just love this sourdough dutch baby recipe.

This post contains affiliate links. I may make a small commission on sales at no extra cost to you

a slice of sourdough dutch baby pancake with a fork on a plate

Sourdough dutch baby pancakes are the perfect recipe for excess sourdough starter.

With the option of adding a variety of toppings, this recipe is very customizable, as well.

If you are brand new to sourdough, you will need to make your own sourdough starter

Why I love this recipe

Made with simple ingredients and sourdough starter, these sourdough dutch babies make a beautiful puffy pancake that begs for any topping you choose!

An easy recipe to make and involve your kids as they will love the way this sourdough puff pancakes puffs up in the oven!

It’s a great way to use up sourdough discard if you have a large amount.

What is Active Sourdough Starter?

Active starter is starter that has been fed within the last 24 hours. It is bubbly and has a pleasant smell.

This stage of a sourdough starter is best for recipes that require a rise.

What is Sourdough Discard?

Sourdough starter discard is starter that hasn’t been fed recently and is hungry. It will have a liquid on top and smell of acetone.

This stage of starter is best suited for recipes that do not require a big rise. Sourdough Discard Recipes are those they do not need to rise but will use your hungry sourdough starter up if you have a lot in your jar.

Try my recipe for traditional pancakes made with sourdough starter This recipe for sourdough pancakes can also be used for waffles.

overhead shot of sourdough german pancake in a cast iron skillet

Shop this post

This recipe is made in a Cast Iron Skillet

To blend the batter, using a handheld immersion blender can make the job a lot easier.

Ingredients you will need to make this sourdough dutch baby recipe

Sourdough Starter– May use active starter or discard
Eggs– I use fresh eggs at room temperature. You can use store bough cold eggs, as well.
Milk– Use whole milk, skim milk, or a milk substitute
Salt
Vanilla Extract
Sugar (optional)
Olive oil, coconut oil, or melted butter– For the cast-iron skillet

For complete ingredient amounts, see recipe card below.

overhead shot of a slice of sourdough german pancake

How to make a Sourdough Dutch Baby Pancake

Preheat a 10 inch cast iron skillet in the oven to 425 degrees F with the butter in the skillet.

In a large mixing bowl, add the sourdough starter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt.

Using either a whisk, hand mixer, or immersion blender, mix the ingredients until well combined.

Once the oven is preheated, carefully remove the skillet.

Add the olive oil or melted butter.

Pour the batter into the hot cast iron skillet and return to the preheated oven.

The puffy oven pancake will sizzle as it hits the hot skillet.

Bake for 15-18 minutes in preheated oven until lightly golden brown and it has crispy edges.

this is a side view of a slice of sourdough dutch baby pancake

Topping ideas

Top this oven baked pancake with fresh fruit or fresh berries and maple syrup. Try this homemade pancake syrup recipe

Add chocolate chips and drizzle with honey.

For a savory dutch baby, omit the sugar and top with sour cream and green onions.

Storage

Store leftover sourdough dutch baby in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Sourdough Dutch Babies can be frozen in a freezer safe bag for up to 3 months.