Mini German Pancakes are my go-to solution for hectic mornings. As a busy chef, I crave reliable, make-ahead breakfasts that please both kids and grown-ups. These oven-puffed, 12-bite pancakes puff beautifully. And they come together with simple pantry staples. Fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar complement their delicate sweetness. In this article, I’ll share how to mix a silky batter and bake 12 cups. I’ll also cover substitutions, tips, and why this recipe is a repeat-worthy crowd-pleaser. From simple breakfasts for one to weekend brunch plans, this scales with a few adjustments. You’ll see why it’s a go-to for busy mornings and gatherings.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Mini German Pancakes are like a warm hug you bake in the morning rush. I love how this recipe turns pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing breakfast in minutes. It’s comforting, foolproof, and naturally kid-friendly, which helps me stay calm when the house wakes up hungry.
With the oven doing the heavy lifting, I can tend to kids’ backpacks, coffee, or a quick email while the batter puffs away. Those 12 bite-sized portions mean everyone gets a share, and cleanup is a mere wipe of the muffin tin. The best part? You can top them with fruit, syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that bakery experience at home.
A cozy, fuss-free breakfast for忙 morningsThis cozy breakfast fits into any busy schedule. The hands-off oven-baking means zero flipping or babysitting a skillet, even on the craziest mornings. The puff factor is the magic—golden edges cradle a springy center, which kids adore and adults appreciate.
Plus, portions are kid-friendly by design, easy to share, and little to tidy. With simple toppings ready on the counter, you can switch from plain to playful in minutes. It’s a small ritual that says you’ve got this, even on your busiest days.

- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Butter for greasing the muffin tin
Milk hydrates the batter for tender pancakes.
Flour gives the structure for a light, fluffy bite.
Eggs contribute lift and richness to the batter.
Melted butter adds moisture and flavor.
Sugar lightly sweetens the batter.
Vanilla adds a gentle aroma.
Salt heightens all the flavors.
Butter for greasing prevents sticking.
Optional substitutions and tips: If you need dairy-free, swap to almond milk and dairy-free butter. For a warm note, add a pinch of cinnamon. For extra brightness, top with fresh berries. If you prefer whole grains, use half whole-wheat flour.
Exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article and available for printing.
How to Make Mini German Pancakes Step 1: Preheat and grease the muffin tin for Mini German PancakesPreheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter.
Step 2: Whisk the batter for Mini German PancakesIn a bowl, whisk milk, flour, eggs, melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Fill cups and bake to puffPour batter evenly into cups, filling each about halfway. Bake 12–15 minutes until puffed and golden at the edges.
Step 4: Serve and enjoyServe warm with powdered sugar, fruit, syrup, or jam.

- Grease the muffin tin well to prevent sticking, especially around the edges, so your Mini German Pancakes lift perfectly.
- Bake just until golden and puffed for that tender, airy texture in every bite.
- Serve immediately for peak puffiness, or reheat gently with a splash of milk if needed.
- Leftovers can be stored airtight and warmed in the oven for a quick, cozy reheat.
- Muffin tin (12-cup) or silicone muffin cups; greasing well prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Small whisk or blender; quick, smooth batter, even when hands are full.
- Pastry brush or paper towels for greasing; or use nonstick spray.
- Measuring cups and spoons; a kitchen scale is optional for precision.
- I swap in almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
- I add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warmth.
- I top with fresh berries and lemon zest for brightness.
- I use half whole-wheat flour for a heartier bite.
As a busy home cook, I crave mornings that feel calm and delicious. These Mini German Pancakes deliver that with minimal effort and maximum comfort. The warm, puffed bite brings a smile every time I pull the tray from the oven.
Oven-baked, quick, and hands-off, they free me to juggle breakfast with kids, coffee, and a quick message.
- Oven-baked, quick, and hands-off
- 12 perfect bite-size portions for sharing
- Versatile toppings for kids and guests
- Fresh, delicate flavor with a cozy texture
- Fresh fruit salad or berries add color and bright, refreshing contrast to the rich Mini German Pancakes on any plate.
- Maple syrup, sugar, or a spoon of fruit compote sweeten to taste and mood.
- A splash of warm milk or coffee on the side keeps little ones content and breakfast.

Brunch on the weekend should feel joyful, not rushed. With Mini German Pancakes, I can plan ahead and still serve something special. This Make-Ahead Brunch Planner helps me balance flavor with tempo, for mornings that run smoothly.
Plan ahead for weekend gatherings- Batter can be mixed ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Bake the pancakes fresh or reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warm and lightly crisp at the edges.
Yes, I bake Mini German Pancakes in a standard muffin tin all the time. It yields bite-size portions that puff beautifully and cook evenly. The trick is keeping the batter consistent and not overfill cups. For a bigger batch, use a larger muffin tin, silicone cups, or a sheet-pan and adjust the bake time accordingly.
Can I freeze Mini German Pancakes?Yes. After baking, cool the pancakes completely and freeze them in an airtight container or sturdy bag. They keep well for about a month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore puff and tenderness, or warm briefly in the microwave for a quick fix.
Are these suitable for dairy-free diets?Yes, with simple swaps. I swap dairy milk for almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The batter stays light and airy. If you want extra richness, a little dairy-free yogurt works well too.
How can I adapt the sweetness level for kids?Start with less sugar in the batter—about 1/2 tablespoon. Let kids top theirs with fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or dust with powdered sugar for a gentle sweetness.
Final Thoughts A little breakfast magic to carry you through the weekThese Mini German Pancakes remind me mornings can be bright, not chaotic.
I love how the oven does the heavy lifting while I sip coffee.
When life speeds up, these pancakes stay dependable.
They’re a crowd-pleaser yet feel intimate at weekday breakfasts.
I treasure tiny rituals: berries rinsed, syrup warmed, a moment of calm before the day begins.
Sharing a tray makes mornings feel like a family moment, not a sprint.
Mini German Pancakes are more than a recipe.
They’re a small promise that comfort travels with us.
Grab a plate, taste a memory, and start the week with a hopeful, full stomach.
Print
Mini German Pancakes Deliver 12 Delicious Breakfasts.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini German Pancakes are light, fluffy, and oven-puffed breakfast treats that puff beautifully in the oven. These 12 bite-size pancakes are perfect for a simple breakfast or brunch, delicious with fresh fruit, syrup, or powdered sugar, and easy to customize for kids and guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Butter for greasing the muffin tin
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter.
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, flour, eggs, melted butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Pour batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about halfway.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, or until the pancakes puff dramatically and turn golden around the edges.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, fruit, syrup, or jam.
Notes
- Grease the muffin tin well to prevent sticking.
- Best served immediately for peak puffiness.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup or fruit compote if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Oven-baked
- Cuisine: German-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pancake (1/12 of recipe)
- Calories: 108
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 4.7 g
- Cholesterol: 97 mg
Keywords: Mini German Pancakes, oven-baked pancakes, German pancakes, bite-size pancakes, breakfast ideas, brunch recipe, easy pancake recipe, puffed pancakes