Hootenanny Recipe

The oven-baked pancake that tastes like a celebration in your mouth—perfect for jazzing up brunch parties!

Table of Contents

The hootenanny is a sweet and airy brunch treat. Not to be confused with the famous folk music-inspired cocktail, this decadent dish is egg-based and absolutely scrumptious.

Personally, I like it drizzled with maple syrup or honey and dusted with cacao powder. But many brunch babes prefer to sprinkle theirs with powdered sugar and fresh fruit. Perhaps you’re thinking, “Why not all of the above?” If so, you’re going to fall in love with this harmonious hootenanny recipe. It transforms a simple, mild batter into crispy, golden-brown goodness—perfect for any of your favorite toppings.

If you want to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience in four simple steps, this recipe is yours to explore. It takes only 35 minutes, and most of that time is spent relaxing while you wait for it to bake. Whether you’re treating just yourself or a group of loved ones, hootenanny can make any brunch spread more memorable.

Is This Hootenanny Healthy?

Because it’s sugary and carb-rich, hootenanny is an indulgent treat that should be consumed in moderation. It’s not the healthiest dish, but it does have a decent amount of egg protein in each serving. It can also be easily adjusted to accommodate certain dietary restrictions, such as wheat sensitivities, by simply using gluten-free flour with xanthan gum instead of regular.

What Does “Hootenanny” Mean?

I used to think that the word only referred to a rowdy musical party, but it seems to have multiple meanings. Today, hootenanny can also mean a cocktail made with Drambuie, wheat beer, and grapefruit juice, and—perhaps most deliciously—a type of oven-baked pancake. This breakfast dish is an American take on a German pancake or Dutch baby: a golden, eggy batter that puffs dramatically in the oven, then settles into a custardy center with crisp edges. It’s often served with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, and maple syrup. While the recipe draws inspiration from German cuisine, the hootenanny pancake as we know it is a distinctly American invention—fun to say, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs & Tips

How Do I Store Leftovers?

To store leftover hootenanny, let it cool, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing, as thawing could ruin the light and puffy texture. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until it’s warm all the way through.

Can I Prep This Ahead?

You can make hootenanny batter up to 24 hours ahead of time by following Steps 1 and 2. Cover the bowl of batter and keep it in the fridge for no more than 1 day. When you’re ready, melt the butter and bake it all together.

What’s The Difference Between Hootenanny And Dutch Baby?

Whether you call it hootenanny, a Dutch baby, or a German Pancake, you’re describing the same beloved breakfast treat with an airy texture and dramatic presentation. They’re all made from eggs, milk, flour, and butter, then typically prepared by pouring the batter into a preheated, buttered skillet or baking dish and baking at a high temperature, which causes it to puff dramatically. The choice of pan—cast-iron skillet, cake pan, or baking dish—can affect the pancake’s shape and rise, but not enough to create a distinct type.

Why Did My Hootenanny Not Puff Up?

That dramatic puff is the result of steam that’s created when your hootenanny batter hits the hot pan and oven. To ensure an impressive puff, make sure: your eggs and milk are at room temperature, the oven has reached a full 425°F, the pan you’re using is hot, and that you do not open the oven door while the pancake cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Once you’ve garnished your hootenanny in the desired way, serve up a whole breakfast spread by adding Smoothie Bowls, Mashed Potato Pancakes, Breakfast Sausage, Coconut Yogurt, and Croissant Breakfast Sandwiches. Personally, I enjoy a hootenanny topped with honey and banana slices, washed down with a cold and creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Shake. The decadence continues!