Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are an indulgent breakfast or brunch dish that combines a light, eggy batter with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives. The result is a golden, puffed-up masterpiece that’s crispy on the edges and soft in the center. These savory Dutch babies are easy to make, especially when using a preheated skillet for that perfect puff. Serve them with a touch of prosciutto, radishes, and a few extra chives for an elegant, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 1/4 cups grated Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar cheese, divided (5 oz)

• 8 large eggs

• 3/4 cup whole milk

• 1/4 cup minced fresh chives, plus more for garnish

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Optional toppings:

  • French ham or prosciutto, thinly sliced

  • Thinly sliced radishes

  • Lightly dressed greens

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven and Skillet: Set your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet (or several smaller ones) in the oven to preheat as it heats up.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, chives, and mustard powder together until smooth.

4. Combine: Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. A few lumps are fine.

5. Cook the Batter: Add butter to the hot skillet and let it melt and foam for 3-5 minutes until it smells nutty. Pour the batter into the skillet, ensuring it doesn’t rise above 3/4 of the pan’s height. Bake for 15 minutes.

6. Add Cheese and Finish: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until puffed and golden.

7. Serve: Remove the Dutch babies from the oven and top with prosciutto, radishes, and greens as desired. Slice and serve warm.

Nutrients

Per Serving (Approximate):

• Calories: 290 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 15g

• Protein: 16g

• Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 10g

• Cholesterol: 235mg

• Sodium: 600mg

• Potassium: 125mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 2g

• Vitamin A: 350 IU

• Vitamin C: 4mg

• Calcium: 240mg

• Iron: 2mg

The Allure of Dutch Babies

Dutch babies, also known as German pancakes, have a rich history rooted in early 20th-century America, where they became a popular breakfast dish. Typically, Dutch babies are sweet, but the savory twist offered by cheddar and chives brings a new dimension to this classic dish. What sets Dutch babies apart from traditional pancakes is the way they puff up in the oven, creating an irresistible golden exterior while maintaining a soft and custardy interior. The batter for Dutch babies typically consists of eggs, flour, milk, and a pinch of salt—ingredients that come together to form a light, airy texture when baked.

The simplicity of the dish allows for endless customization, and adding sharp cheddar and fresh chives infuses the batter with a savory, rich flavor that complements the lightness of the pancake. The combination of the cheese’s sharpness and the bright, fresh flavor of chives offers an unexpected yet delightful twist, making it a perfect meal for those who want to elevate their breakfast or brunch without complicating the process.

The Role of Sharp Cheddar and Fresh Chives

The inclusion of sharp cheddar cheese is one of the key factors that make these Dutch babies so irresistible. Sharp cheddar has a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the fluffy batter. As the Dutch baby bakes, the cheese melts into the batter, creating pockets of creamy, cheesy goodness that add depth and richness to the dish. The addition of cheese elevates the dish, making it heartier and more satisfying than a traditional sweet Dutch baby, which tends to be lighter and more delicate.

Fresh chives are another essential ingredient that adds brightness and color to the dish. Their mild onion flavor is a perfect counterbalance to the richness of the cheddar, providing a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor. Chives not only add flavor but also contribute to the visual appeal of the dish, creating a burst of green against the golden-yellow hue of the baked Dutch baby. Together, the sharp cheddar and chives create a harmonious balance of rich and fresh flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.

The Importance of Preheating the Skillet

One of the key techniques for making a successful Dutch baby is preheating the skillet before adding the batter. The batter is poured into a hot, buttered skillet, which ensures that the edges immediately begin to cook, resulting in a dramatic puff. The preheated skillet helps to create a crisp, golden exterior while allowing the center of the Dutch baby to remain tender and custardy. The high heat of the skillet is crucial to the puffing process, and it is this dramatic rise that gives Dutch babies their unique appearance and texture.

Using a cast-iron skillet is particularly effective for making Dutch babies, as it retains heat well and ensures even cooking. When baking in a hot skillet, the batter forms a beautiful crust around the edges, and the cheese melts evenly, creating a satisfying balance of textures in every bite. This method of cooking is part of what makes Dutch babies so special, and it ensures that each one turns out perfectly puffed and golden.

A Quick and Easy Preparation

While Dutch babies may appear to be a complicated dish, they are surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, including eggs, flour, milk, and a touch of seasoning, the batter comes together in a matter of minutes. The process of mixing the ingredients is straightforward—whisking together the wet ingredients and dry ingredients before combining them into one smooth batter. No special techniques or equipment are required, and the preparation time is minimal.

Once the batter is ready, the only step left is to pour it into the preheated skillet and bake. The magic happens in the oven, where the batter transforms into a golden, puffed creation. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy mornings or as a quick meal for guests. With only a few minutes of hands-on time and about 25 minutes of baking, you can enjoy a fresh, homemade, and impressive dish.

Customization and Variations

Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients to suit your tastes. For example, adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions can add depth and texture to the dish. You can also incorporate other cheeses, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, to experiment with different flavor profiles. If you’re looking for additional protein, crumbled bacon or ham can be added to the batter before baking, giving the dish a savory, meaty flavor that enhances its heartiness.

For a touch of sweetness, you could serve the Dutch babies with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of sour cream. The dish can easily be adjusted to suit both savory and slightly sweet tastes, depending on what you’re in the mood for. The versatility of this dish makes it a great option for a variety of occasions, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

The Perfect Pairings

Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are delicious on their own, but they are also fantastic when paired with a variety of side dishes. For a light, fresh contrast, serve them with a side of mixed greens or a light salad. A simple vinaigrette with lemon or mustard will add a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the Dutch babies. If you prefer a heartier meal, serve the Dutch babies alongside roasted vegetables or crispy potatoes. The combination of the fluffy, cheesy Dutch baby and the roasted, caramelized vegetables creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

In addition, these savory Dutch babies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A fresh-pressed juice, like orange or grapefruit juice, complements the richness of the dish with a burst of citrusy brightness. For a more indulgent pairing, consider serving the Dutch babies with a glass of champagne or a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity of the wine helps balance the richness of the cheese, making it a perfect accompaniment to the dish.

An Elegant Brunch or Special Occasion Dish

Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are an excellent choice for a brunch or special occasion. Their impressive appearance, with the dramatic puff and golden crust, makes them a showstopper at any gathering. The addition of prosciutto, radishes, and greens elevates the dish, making it not only a flavorful meal but also a visually stunning one. The light, fluffy batter, combined with the savory toppings, creates a dish that is both indulgent and elegant, perfect for serving to guests.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch for friends or celebrating a special occasion with family, these savory Dutch babies are sure to be the highlight of the meal. They are easy to make yet sophisticated enough to feel like a treat, making them the ideal dish for both casual and formal occasions.

A Satisfying and Comforting Meal

Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are a comforting, satisfying dish that will leave you feeling full and content. The combination of cheese, eggs, and chives creates a rich, flavorful base, while the crispy edges and soft center offer a delightful contrast in texture. Whether you’re enjoying them as a special brunch treat or serving them as a hearty dinner, these Dutch babies are guaranteed to please. The simplicity of the recipe and the quick preparation time make them an ideal option for busy mornings or weeknights, while the elegant presentation ensures that they can be served at any gathering.

Conclusion: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

In conclusion, Cheddar and Chive Savory Dutch Babies are a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic Dutch baby pancake. With their crispy edges, fluffy interior, and flavorful cheesy batter, they offer a comforting and indulgent meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The versatility of the dish allows for endless customization, making it easy to adapt to your taste preferences. Whether you serve them with prosciutto, radishes, and greens or add your own toppings, these savory Dutch babies are sure to impress. Their quick preparation time and simple ingredients make them a go-to dish for busy mornings or special occasions, while their rich flavor and beautiful puff make them a true showstopper.