If you’ve never tried a Dutch baby pancake, you’re in for a delightful surprise.
This fluffy, oven-baked pancake puffs up beautifully, creating a light and airy texture that’s perfect for both sweet and savory toppings.
Today, I’m sharing my favorite twist: a savory Dutch baby pancake topped with rich smoked salmon and a dollop of creamy crème fraîche.
Ingredient List
To make my Savory Dutch Baby Pancake with Smoked Salmon, gather the following ingredients. Don’t stress – we’re keeping this easy!
For the Pancake
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour (for gluten-free: swap with 1:1 GF blend)
- 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (use almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup (120g) crème fraîche (sour cream works too)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
For the Topping
- 4 ounces (113g) smoked salmon
- 1 cup (30g) fresh arugula
- Capers to taste (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the Dutch baby puffs up perfectly.
- Blend the batter: In a bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 3/4 cup (90g) all-purpose flour (or 1:1 gluten-free blend), 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (or almond milk), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Rest the batter for 10 minutes. This step allows the gluten to relax, ensuring a fluffy pancake.
- Melt butter: In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, add 3 tablespoons (42g) of butter. Place it in the oven to melt.
- Pour the batter into the hot skillet, swirling to combine with the melted butter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are golden and puffy. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup (120g) crème fraîche, juice from 1 lemon, and 1 tablespoon fresh dill. This adds a refreshing zing.
- Assemble the toppings: Remove the baked pancake from the oven. Top with smoked salmon, a handful of fresh arugula, and optional capers.
Recipe Notes & Variations
-
For the Sauce
- Crème fraîche (Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative)
- Lemon juice (lime juice works too)
- Fresh dill (or fresh chives for a different flavor)
-
For the Topping
- Smoked salmon (substitute with poached chicken if salmon isn’t an option)
- Fresh arugula (baby spinach is a mild substitute)
- Capers (omit them for a kid-friendly version)
Tips and Tricks
- Rest the batter: Letting it sit for 10 minutes helps develop flavor and texture.
- Use a non-stick skillet: This reduces the chance of sticking.
- Freeze ahead: Prepare and freeze the unbaked pancake. Thaw overnight before cooking for a quick meal.
- Picky eaters: Swap toppings based on your family’s favorites for a personalized dish.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as this pancake puffs up in the oven! Enjoy the process and celebrate your delicious creation.
Serving Suggestions
Don’t stress – we’re keeping this easy! Serving my Savory Dutch Baby Pancake with Smoked Salmon is all about creativity and flavor. Here are some fantastic ideas:
For the Sauce
- Crème Fraîche: This creamy drizzle is a must. Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or dairy-free yogurt (like coconut) if needed.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed brightens up the dish. You could use lime juice for a fun twist.
- Fresh Dill: Try using parsley or chives if you’re not a fan of dill.
For the Topping
- Smoked Salmon: Swap for grilled chicken or even canned tuna if salmon isn’t your thing.
- Fresh Arugula: Baby spinach works well too for a milder taste.
- Capers: Omit if your family prefers a less briny flavor.
Quick Tips
- Time-Saver: Use pre-chopped veggies to save 10 minutes.
- Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper before serving.
- Make It a Meal: Serve with a side of seasonal fruit for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for my Savory Dutch Baby Pancake with Smoked Salmon.
This balanced dish packs a punch of flavors while also being nourishing!
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 pancake) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 24g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 2g |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 120mg |
Sodium | 450mg |
Key Notes:
- Protein Power: The eggs and smoked salmon provide a lovely protein boost. Perfect for keeping everyone feeling full!
- Healthy Fats: The butter adds flavor, while the salmon brings in omega-3s, which are great for heart health.
- Watch the Sodium: If you’re mindful of salt, use unsalted butter and adjust the seasoning to your family’s taste.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as this bakes! Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Conclusion
I can’t recommend the Savory Dutch Baby Pancake with Smoked Salmon enough.
It’s a delightful dish that brings together a fluffy pancake and the rich flavors of smoked salmon.
The combination of the creamy sauce and fresh toppings makes every bite a little celebration.
Whether you whip it up for brunch or a quick weeknight dinner this recipe is sure to impress.
Plus it’s so easy to customize based on what you have on hand. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!