Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe
If you’ve ever wished for a pancake that delivers both a satisfyingly crisp edge and a cloud-like fluffy center without the fuss of flipping, then you’re going to love this Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe. It’s an absolute game-changer for breakfast or brunch, offering a perfect combination of golden color, tender crumb, and a rich buttery aroma that fills your kitchen and makes any morning feel special. Trust me, once you dive into this skillet pancake, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe every time. Each one plays a crucial role: from the fluffy rise to the crispy crust, and the beautifully tender crumb inside.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body, making the pancake tender and fluffy.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning for that perfect golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the pancake its lightness by helping it rise beautifully in the oven.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create tender fluffiness and slight lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a rich tang and works with the leavening agents for that incredible fluff.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the batter and add richness and structure.
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Adds depth of flavor and helps create a lovely crisp edge and bottom.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the pancake with a comforting warmth and aroma.
How to Make Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, place your 10-inch cast-iron skillet inside so it gets hot. This step is crucial because the hot skillet sears the batter immediately, helping to develop those irresistible crispy edges and bottom.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures your leavening agents are distributed well, which means a consistent rise throughout the pancake batter.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. The buttermilk is what gives the pancake that subtle tang and helps the baking soda work its magic for fluffiness.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until everything is blended. Be careful not to overmix here since overworking the batter can result in a dense texture instead of the desired lift and fluff.
Step 5: Cook in the Hot Skillet
Carefully remove the sizzling skillet from the oven and add a small pat of butter, swirling it around to coat the entire surface. Immediately pour the batter into the skillet, then return it to the oven. This heat shock is key to achieving the signature crispy base.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, allowing the pancake to puff up, turn golden brown around the edges, and cook through in the center. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s beautifully puffed and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
How to Serve Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can elevate this pancake into a truly indulgent experience. Fresh berries offer a juicy pop of flavor, powdered sugar adds delicate sweetness, and classic maple syrup is the perfect companion for the rich, buttery base. If you’re feeling decadent, whipped cream or a simple pat of butter melting on top always does the trick.
Side Dishes
This make-ahead pancake pairs wonderfully with savory sides like crispy bacon or sausage, fresh fruit salad, or even a creamy yogurt bowl. These combinations help balance the sweet and buttery notes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the pancake into wedges and serve it layered with mascarpone and a drizzle of honey for a brunch centerpiece. Another idea is to turn it into an elegant breakfast dessert by topping with fresh fruit compote and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. The crispy edges make it perfect for scooping up syrup or dollops of cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your pancake feast, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pancake whole or sliced into wedges to make reheating easier and more even.
Freezing
If you want to extend the pancake’s life, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe freezes beautifully for up to 1 month, allowing you to enjoy a quick breakfast anytime.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy edge when reheating, pop the slices into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. This mimics the acidity and texture of buttermilk, which is important for that perfect fluff.
Why do I need to heat the skillet before adding the batter?
Heating the skillet ensures the batter immediately starts to cook and form a crispy bottom and edges. Without this step, the pancake might cook unevenly and lack the signature crispness that makes this recipe so special.
Can I make this pancake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still get that delightful crispy, fluffy combination.
Is this pancake recipe suitable for savory variations?
Yes, this is a versatile recipe. Simply omit the sugar and vanilla, and consider adding herbs, cheese, or cooked bacon bits to the batter. You’ll have a delicious savory skillet pancake perfect for any meal.
How do I prevent the pancake from becoming soggy?
Making sure your skillet is thoroughly heated and coated with butter before adding the batter is the key to crispiness. Also, avoid covering the pancake in syrup or toppings for too long before serving, as that can soften the crispy crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a freshly baked skillet pancake that boasts both a crispy edge and a pillowy-soft interior. The Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe is simple enough for any home cook but impressive enough to share with guests or enjoy as a weekend treat. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a staple in your brunch rotation. So preheat that oven, grab your skillet, and get ready to bake your new favorite pancake!
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Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy, Fluffy Oven-Baked Skillet Pancake recipe delivers a perfect combination of a golden, crispy edge with a light, fluffy interior. Baked directly in a hot cast-iron skillet, it’s a simple yet impressive breakfast or brunch dish, easily customizable with sweet or savory toppings. The use of buttermilk and a hot skillet ensures maximum rise and a delightful texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (plus more for the skillet)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Pat of butter
Instructions
- Preheat the skillet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet inside the oven to heat up while you prepare the pancake batter. This step is crucial to achieve a crispy bottom crust.
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined evenly.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a whisk or spatula just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the pancake light and fluffy.
- Butter the hot skillet: Carefully remove the heated skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Add a small pat of butter to the skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom and sides generously.
- Add batter and bake: Immediately pour the pancake batter into the hot, buttered skillet, spreading gently to distribute evenly. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pancake is puffed, golden brown around the edges, and cooked through the center.
- Serve: Remove the skillet pancake from the oven, slice into wedges, and serve immediately topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, or additional butter as desired.
Notes
- Heating the skillet before pouring batter is key to achieving crispy edges and a perfectly cooked bottom.
- For a savory twist, omit sugar and vanilla from the batter and add herbs, shredded cheese, or cooked bacon to the mixture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense pancakes; a few lumps are fine.
- Serve immediately for best texture as the pancake tends to deflate as it cools.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
