Strawberries & Cream Dutch Baby with Lemon Balm Syrup

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There’s just something special about a Dutch baby rising in the oven on a slow Sunday morning. It’s like a little celebration in a skillet—golden, puffed, and practically begging for toppings. This version leans into early spring’s sweetness with juicy strawberries and a light, herbal lemon balm syrup that’s easy to make but feels like something from a farmhouse brunch spread. The best part? It looks impressive, but it’s simple enough to whip up while the coffee’s still brewing.

💗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bakes in one skillet—no flipping, no fuss.
• Naturally sweetened and lightly herbal.
• Easy to customize with seasonal fruit.
• Feels special, but takes less than 30 minutes.
• Perfect for Mother’s Day or a spring breakfast.

🕒 Quick Reference

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Info: Vegetarian, refined sugar optional

⭐ Key Ingredients at a Glance

• Fresh eggs 🥚
• Whole milk 🥛
• All-purpose flour
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh strawberries 🍓
• Lemon balm 🌿
• Honey or maple syrup 🍯

🛒 Ingredients

For the Dutch Baby:

• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional; use maple syrup or honey for refined sugar-free)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for the skillet)

For the Lemon Balm Syrup:

• ½ cup water
• ½ cup honey (or maple syrup)
• ½ cup loosely packed fresh lemon balm leaves
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For Topping:

• 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
• Whipped cream, yogurt, or powdered sugar (optional)
• Extra lemon balm leaves for garnish

Ingredient Notes:
You can substitute lemon balm with lemon verbena or even fresh mint for a different herbal twist. Don’t skip the butter for the skillet—it’s what gives those delicious golden edges!

👩‍🍳 Instructions

🥄 Step 1: Make the Lemon Balm Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, bring water and honey to a low simmer.
2. Add lemon balm leaves and simmer for 3–5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat, cover, and steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain and stir in lemon juice (if using). Set aside to cool.

🥄 Step 2: Prepare the Dutch Baby Batter

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet inside to heat.
2. In a blender, combine eggs, milk, flour, vanilla, sugar (if using), and salt. Blend until smooth and frothy—about 30 seconds.
3. Let batter rest for 5 minutes while the skillet finishes heating.

🥄 Step 3: Bake the Dutch Baby

1. Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Add butter and swirl to coat.
2. Immediately pour batter into the skillet and return to the oven.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until puffed and deeply golden around the edges.

🥄 Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Remove the Dutch baby from the oven. It will deflate a bit—don’t worry, that’s normal!
2. Top with sliced strawberries and a generous drizzle of lemon balm syrup.
3. Add whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.
4. Garnish with lemon balm leaves and serve immediately.

🍽 Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with coffee or herbal tea for a sweet brunch.
• Add a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a full breakfast spread.
• Pair with other garden-inspired dishes like a fresh herb frittata or lavender scones.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in a warm oven to bring back crisp edges.
• Lemon balm syrup keeps in the fridge for 1 week and is delicious on pancakes, ice cream, or stirred into tea.

🌿 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Dutch baby is one of those recipes that feels like more than the sum of its parts—light, cozy, and touched by the garden. I love making it for Mother’s Day, but honestly? It’s a favorite any time strawberries are in season.

If you try it, let me know in the comments or tag @SouthernSoilSunshine on Instagram—I’d love to see your golden puff and garden garnish!

➡️ Looking for more garden-to-table breakfast ideas? Try these:

Blueberry Sage Tea Cake Recipe
A delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the earthy notes of sage.

Cheesy Veggie Omelette Recipe
A hearty breakfast option packed with fresh vegetables and melted cheese.

Delicious Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
A make-ahead breakfast that’s both nutritious and flavorful.