Strawberry Dutch Baby Pancake - Simple and delicious afternoon dessert

When I first saw the name "Dutch Baby Pancake," I felt both intrigued and amused. Although it includes the word "Dutch," this pancake actually doesn’t come from the Netherlands at all.

Origin of the Name

Despite the name, the Dutch Baby Pancake isn’t actually Dutch. The term “Dutch” in the name is thought to be a corruption of the word “Deutsch,” which means “German” in German. This suggests that the recipe was inspired by German pancakes.

Introduced by an American Restaurant

The name was popularised by the American restaurant, “Mert’s,” in Seattle, Washington, in the early 20th century. The dish was presented as a variation of the German “pfannkuchen” (a type of pancake) and was called “Dutch Baby” by the restaurant’s owners. They chose the term “Dutch” because it sounded exotic and appealing, and “Baby” to imply something small or delicate.

Popularity of Dutch Baby Pancake

So, the name is a blend of misinterpretation and marketing, with the dish itself rooted in German culinary traditions but given a distinctly American twist. The Dutch Baby Pancake gained popularity due to its unique presentation and ease of preparation. Made with eggs, flour, sugar, and milk, this dessert has a rich egg flavour and crispy edges. You can also add your favourite fruits according to your taste. It’s perfect for both brunch and an afternoon treat.