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Oma's German Pancakes (Pfannkuchen)

These German pancakes (pfannkuchen) are the ones I really love, similar to crepes, perfect with sweet or savory fillings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250 g)all-purpose flour 
• 2 cups (480 ml) milk 
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons (25 g) sugar (optional)
• 1 pinch salt 
• 1½ tablespoons (22 ml) sparkling water (optional )
• ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, using a whisk or hand mixer whisk together flour, milk, eggs, salt, and sugar (if using) until smooth and slightly bubbly. 
2. Cover and let the batter rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
3. After resting, stir in the sparkling water to lighten the batter.
4. Heat a nonstick skillet or crepe pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of butter and swirl to coat the pan.
5. Pour about ½ cup (120 ml) of batter into the pan and immediately tilt it to spread the batter into a thin, even layer.
6. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden and the edges begin to crisp. Flip and cook the second side for 1–2 more minutes.
7. Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter to the pan as needed. Keep finished pancakes warm in a low oven if desired.
8. Serve warm with sweet or savory toppings—rolled up, folded, or stacked.

Notes/Hints:

• Don’t have German Mineralwasser? Use plain sparkling water, club soda, or seltzer. Just make sure it’s unflavored and unsweetened. Add it right before cooking for the fluffiest Pfannkuchen.
• Any leftover pancakes (without sugar) are perfect for flädlesuppe.

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Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com

Recipe updated on May 10, 2025