Step 1

Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet, oven-safe skillet, or pie dish (you could also use a 3-qt baking dish) in the oven and preheat to 425°F.

Step 2

While the oven and skillet are preheating, add the eggs, milk, flour, salt, and sugar (if using) to a blender or food processor. Blend for 1 minute, scraping the sides and bottom to make sure there are no clumps and all of the flour has been distributed. Let your batter rest for about 10 minutes or while the skillet heats.

Step 3

Once the skillet has preheated, use potholders and carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Add the butter, shaking the pan to swirl it around, being sure to get some around the sides. As soon as the butter has completely melted, pour the batter in.

Step 4

Return the skillet to the oven and bake the Dutch baby until golden and puffed up, about 15 minutes or so (I like mine more custardy in the center, so I usually pull it after 15 minutes, but feel free to bake yours a bit longer if you prefer). Just check it after 15.

Step 5

To serve, add desired sweet or savory toppings and cut into slices.