Easy Dutch Pancake Recipe: Poffertjes Rezept Made in a Cast Iron Skillet

When the morning sun peeks through my kitchen window, there's a certain joy that comes with preparing something as delightful as Poffertjes. These tiny Dutch pancakes, light and fluffy with a hint of sweetness, always manage to elevate my breakfast game. As the batter rises, I can’t help but breathe in the warm, yeasty aroma that fills the air, reminiscent of cozy street markets in the Netherlands.

These delectable treats, resembling mini yeasted doughnuts, are perfect for brunch with friends or a whimsical dessert on a quiet evening. The best part? You can whip them up in a flash using your trusty cast iron skillet! Whether topped with a generous dusting of powdered sugar or slathered with Nutella, Poffertjes bring a smile to every table. Join me as we explore this easy Dutch pancake recipe that promises to transform your culinary routine and offer a memorable twist to your homemade meals!

Why choose this Easy Dutch Pancake Recipe?

Simplicity made easy: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these delightful treats without hassle.
Fluffy texture: The yeast gives Poffertjes a light and airy quality, making each bite a joy.
Quick preparation: From mixing the ingredients to enjoying your pancakes, this recipe is a time-saver.
Versatile toppings: Dress them up with anything from fruit to chocolate for a unique twist.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these charming bites will impress friends and family alike.
Want more delightful recipes? Check out healthy options for quick sweets that everyone will love!

Easy Dutch Pancake Ingredients

• To create these heavenly Poffertjes at home, gather these essential ingredients!

For the Batter

SAF Instant Yeast – This yeast provides the fluffiness and airy texture your Poffertjes are known for; active dry yeast works with minor adjustments!
Warm Milk (90 to 100°F) – Activates the yeast and keeps the batter moist; any dairy-free milk will do if you need a substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the batter; replace with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; consider a sugar substitute if you're looking to reduce calories.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor balance and is essential for these easy Dutch pancakes.
Egg – Binds everything together and adds richness; a flax egg can be a great vegan alternative.
Butter – Greasing the pan for easy release and adding flavor; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Feel free to personalize your Poffertjes with fun toppings and variations for an unforgettable treat!

How to Make Poffertjes

Warm Milk: Begin by gently heating the milk until it reaches 90-100°F. This temperature is ideal for activating the yeast, ensuring your Poffertjes will be wonderfully fluffy.
Dissolve Yeast: Sprinkle the SAF Instant Yeast into the warm milk, stirring gently. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is working its magic.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. This combination will form the delicious base of your batter.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the yeast-milk mixture into the dry ingredients, and crack in the egg. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Let Rise: Cover your bowl with a clean kitchen towel and allow the batter to rise at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour. You’re looking for it to be fluffy and puffy.
Heat Pan: Grease your cast iron skillet or poffertjes pan generously with butter or coconut oil. Preheat it over medium heat until it’s nice and hot.
Cook Poffertjes: Fill each divot of your skillet halfway with batter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, waiting for little bubbles to appear on the surface before flipping them with a skewer.
Finish Cooking: After flipping, cook for another 1-2 minutes until both sides are beautifully browned and cooked through. Repeat until your batter is all used up.

Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for that classic touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Poffertjes

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your milk is at 90-100°F to activate the yeast effectively; too hot can kill it, leading to dense Poffertjes.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter until just combined to keep the light texture; overmixing can lead to dense pancakes.
Hot Pan: Preheat your skillet adequately before cooking; this helps achieve that golden-brown exterior you desire.
Use a Skewer: Flipping Poffertjes can be tricky; a skewer makes it easy to turn without damaging their shape.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding fruits, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of Nutella to elevate your easy Dutch pancake recipe into a delightful treat!

What to Serve with Poffertjes?

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your delightful Poffertjes into a truly unforgettable meal experience.

Fresh Berries:
Their natural sweetness and vibrant colors bring a fresh contrast, enhancing the fluffy pancake's richness beautifully.
Homemade Whipped Cream:
A dollop of light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy decadence that complements the yeasty goodness of Poffertjes.
Nutella Drizzle:
This chocolate-hazelnut delight adds a luscious, indulgent layer that makes each bite more exciting and rich.
Maple Syrup:
A drizzle of warm maple syrup adds a cozy sweetness, creating a comforting experience reminiscent of childhood breakfasts.
Spiced Fruit Compote:
Warm spiced apples or pears add a comforting, seasonal flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the pancakes.
Coffee or Tea:
Enjoying Poffertjes with a warm cup of coffee or tea elevates the experience into a delightful afternoon treat.

Let your creativity soar as you mix and match these suggestions, turning your Poffertjes into a cherished meal that friends and family will adore!

Poffertjes Variations

Customize your Poffertjes to fit your cravings and dietary needs with these delicious twists!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy fluffy Poffertjes without the gluten. The taste remains delightful and just as satisfying.
Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a creamy batter that’s friendly for lactose-intolerant friends.
Sweeten Up: Swap out granulated sugar for maple syrup or honey to add a unique sweetness to your batter while keeping it natural.
Fruit-Infused: Incorporate fresh blueberries or mashed ripe bananas into the batter for fruity flavor that brightens your breakfast. They become sweet bursts of joy in every bite!
Chocolate Delight: Stir in mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a decadent twist that will make your Poffertjes feel more like dessert.
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the batter for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the pancakes.
Spicy Kick: Experiment with a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a warm note that complements the sweet flavors perfectly.
Savory Style: Think outside the box by adding herbs like rosemary or mixing in some finely chopped vegetables for a unique savory Poffertjes experience. They’re a delightful surprise!

Make Ahead Options

Poffertjes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful Dutch pancakes with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the yeast, milk, flour, sugar, salt, egg, and let it rise before refrigerating. To maintain quality, cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, just bring the batter to room temperature, heat your skillet, and proceed to fill each divot, flipping them for a golden finish. This way, you’ll have fluffy, light Poffertjes with that homemade touch, ready in no time for busy mornings or surprise gatherings!

How to Store and Freeze Poffertjes

Room Temperature: Keep Poffertjes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. This will help maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, store Poffertjes in the fridge in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 days, but they may lose some fluffiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Poffertjes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen Poffertjes, reheat them in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy this easy Dutch pancake recipe any time!

Easy Dutch Pancake Recipe: Poffertjes Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for Poffertjes?
For the lightest results, all-purpose flour is the way to go. However, if you need a gluten-free option, feel free to substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same delightful texture.

How can I tell when my yeast is active?
To check if your yeast is active, dissolve it in warm milk (90-100°F) and wait about 5 minutes. If the mixture is frothy and bubbly, your yeast is doing great! If it remains flat, your yeast might be expired, and you will need to start over.

How long do Poffertjes last?
At room temperature, Poffertjes can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days. They can also be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days but may lose some of their lovely fluffiness. For best results, enjoy them fresh!

Can I freeze Poffertjes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled Poffertjes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to indulge, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my Poffertjes are sticking to the pan?
Make sure your pan is adequately greased with butter or coconut oil before each batch. A hot pan is also crucial, so give it enough time to heat up properly! If they stick, try loosening them with a skewer to flip.

Are Poffertjes suitable for people with allergies?
As these delightful treats contain eggs, dairy, and gluten, they may not be suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. However, you can make adjustments: use a flax egg for a vegan alternative, substitute dairy milk with a non-dairy option, and opt for gluten-free flour for those sensitive to gluten.