Introduction
The first time I made a Dutch baby, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to achieve something so impressive. It’s like a pancake met a soufflé and decided to make magic in your oven. Add caramelized apples and creamy Brie, and you’ve got a showstopper. Honestly, it feels like dessert disguised as breakfast—what’s not to love?
Growing up, I had my fair share of pancakes and waffles, but Dutch babies were a revelation. That golden puffiness, the crispy edges—it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a professional chef (even if you’re just following a recipe). This version with caramelized apples and Brie is my absolute favorite. It’s indulgent yet sophisticated, perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or even a holiday brunch. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of flavors. The sweet, slightly tangy caramelized apples pair beautifully with the creamy, slightly salty Brie. All of this sits atop a buttery, airy pancake that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re whipping it up for family or impressing guests, this Dutch baby is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your skillet and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This Dutch baby comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or impromptu brunches.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these staples in your kitchen already—no need for a grocery run!
- Showstopping Presentation: The puffed-up pancake topped with golden apples and gooey Brie is a feast for the eyes.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: The balance of caramelized apples and creamy Brie makes every bite irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast in bed or an elegant brunch with friends, this recipe fits the bill.
What sets this apart from other recipes is the layering of flavors and textures. The caramelized apples bring a hint of sweetness and a touch of tartness, while the Brie adds creaminess and depth. It’s comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Plus, the Dutch baby itself is wonderfully versatile—you can customize the toppings to suit your mood or the season. But honestly, this apple and Brie combo might just steal your heart every time.
What Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients to create a stunning dish. Most are pantry staples, while a couple of extras take it to the next level.
- For the Dutch Baby Batter:
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp (30 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
- For the Caramelized Apples:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly (I love Honeycrisp or Granny Smith!)
- 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp (30 g) brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Toppings:
- 4 oz (115 g) Brie cheese, sliced
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish (optional)
Use fresh, firm apples for the best texture, and don’t skimp on the Brie—it’s the star of the show! If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk and plant-based butter.
Equipment Needed

- 10-inch ovenproof skillet: Cast iron works best for that perfect puff and crispy edges.
- Mixing bowl: To whisk together the batter.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Spatula: For flipping and stirring the apples as they caramelize.
- Knife: To slice the apples and Brie.
If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, you can use an oven-safe stainless steel pan. Just make sure it’s well-greased to avoid sticking. A hand mixer can replace the whisk if you prefer less arm work!
Preparation Method
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your skillet in the oven while it heats up.
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk, flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and lump-free. Set aside.
- Caramelize the apples: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the apple slices and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are golden and tender. Remove from heat.
- Cook the Dutch baby: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the melted butter. Swirl it around to coat the pan. Pour in the batter and immediately return the skillet to the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the Dutch baby is puffed and golden brown.
- Add the toppings: Remove the Dutch baby from the oven and quickly layer the Brie slices and caramelized apples on top. The Brie will soften from the heat of the pancake. Garnish with powdered sugar and fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve: Slice into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy the warm, gooey perfection!
Pro tip: Don’t open the oven door while the Dutch baby is baking. You want to keep all that heat trapped for maximum puffiness!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Preheat the skillet: A hot skillet is key to achieving that signature puff and crispy edges.
- Don’t overmix: Whisk the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Keep an eye on the apples: Stir them frequently to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
- Serve immediately: Dutch babies deflate quickly after coming out of the oven, so serve right away for the best presentation.
I’ve learned the hard way that cold ingredients can lead to a flat Dutch baby, and forgetting to preheat the skillet means missing out on those crispy edges. Follow these tips, and you’ll be a Dutch baby pro in no time!
Variations & Adaptations
- Seasonal twist: Swap the apples for fresh peaches or pears in summer, or add cranberries in winter for a festive touch.
- Cheese options: Try goat cheese or Camembert instead of Brie for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-free version: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix in place of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute coconut milk and plant-based butter, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for extra warmth.
I once made this with pears and blue cheese—talk about a bold flavor combo! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Dutch baby is best served hot, straight out of the oven. Slice it into wedges and plate it with extra caramelized apples on the side for a stunning presentation. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a mimosa for the ultimate brunch vibes.
If you have leftovers (unlikely, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or use a microwave for about 30 seconds. Keep in mind that the texture won’t be as crisp as when it’s freshly baked, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
This recipe serves 4, with each serving containing approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 18g
Apples provide fiber and vitamin C, while Brie adds calcium and protein. If you’re using almond flour, you’ll also get a boost of healthy fats. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but offers some nutritional perks too!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, impressive, and downright delicious, this Dutch baby with caramelized apples and Brie is the one. It’s a dish that brings people together and turns any morning into a special occasion.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Share your creations in the comments or tag me on social media—I’d love to see your version. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
While Dutch babies are best enjoyed fresh, you can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a quick whisk before using.
What’s the best type of apple for this recipe?
Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples work wonderfully due to their balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid overly soft apples as they may turn mushy.
Can I use a regular frying pan instead of cast iron?
If your frying pan is oven-safe, go for it! Just make sure it’s greased well to prevent sticking.
How do I prevent the Dutch baby from deflating?
The puffiness will naturally deflate after a few minutes, but keeping the oven door closed while baking ensures maximum rise.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter for the batter, and replace the Brie with your favorite plant-based cheese.
Pin This Recipe!

Irresistible Dutch Baby Recipe with Apples and Brie
This Dutch baby combines the golden puffiness of a pancake with caramelized apples and creamy Brie for a showstopping dish perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: European
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/2 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 oz Brie cheese, sliced
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your skillet in the oven while it heats up.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk, flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and lump-free. Set aside.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the apple slices and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are golden and tender. Remove from heat.
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the melted butter. Swirl it around to coat the pan. Pour in the batter and immediately return the skillet to the oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the Dutch baby is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove the Dutch baby from the oven and quickly layer the Brie slices and caramelized apples on top. The Brie will soften from the heat of the pancake. Garnish with powdered sugar and fresh herbs, if desired.
- Slice into wedges and serve immediately.
Notes
[‘Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.’, ‘Preheat the skillet for crispy edges and a perfect puff.’, ‘Don’t open the oven door while the Dutch baby is baking to keep the heat trapped.’, ‘Serve immediately as Dutch babies deflate quickly after baking.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 wedge
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Protein: 10
Keywords: Dutch baby, apples, Brie, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, sweet and savory, caramelized apples



