Popovers Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Popovers are light, airy, and crisp on the outside with a soft, custardy center. These simple yet elegant rolls puff up beautifully in the oven, making them a delightful addition to breakfast, brunch, or dinner. With minimal ingredients and an impressive presentation, they are a go-to for home bakers seeking a quick, versatile bread option.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

eggswhole milkall-purpose flourunsalted buttersalt

directions

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a popover pan or muffin tin inside to heat.

In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined.

Add the flour and salt, then mix until the batter is smooth and slightly bubbly.

Remove the hot pan from the oven and quickly brush each cup with melted butter.

Pour the batter into the cups, filling each about halfway.

Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes without opening the oven.

Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, until the popovers are golden and puffed.

Remove from the oven and pierce each popover with a knife to release steam.

Serve immediately for the best texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 popovers using a popover pan or 8 using a standard muffin tin.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add shredded cheese or herbs to the batter for a savory twist.
Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized popovers.
Incorporate a bit of sugar and vanilla for a lightly sweet version.

storage/reheating

Store leftover popovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
Avoid microwaving, as it will make them chewy rather than crisp.

FAQs

What makes popovers rise?

Steam created from the high moisture content in the batter and high oven temperature causes them to puff.

Do I need a popover pan?

A popover pan works best, but a muffin tin can also be used with slightly smaller results.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, the batter can rest in the fridge for up to a day, which may even improve the texture.

Why did my popovers collapse?

Opening the oven too early or underbaking can cause them to deflate. Make sure they are fully set before removing.

Can I freeze popovers?

Yes, freeze in a sealed bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen.

Are popovers gluten-free?

Traditional popovers are not, but they can be made gluten-free with a suitable flour substitute.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Whole milk provides the best texture, but low-fat milk can be used in a pinch.

Can I add fillings?

It’s best to keep fillings minimal, such as a sprinkle of cheese or herbs, to preserve the rise.

Do I need to grease the pan?

Yes, greasing the hot pan helps with the rise and prevents sticking.

Are popovers sweet or savory?

They are neutral, making them adaptable for both sweet and savory toppings.

Conclusion

Popovers are a delightful, easy-to-make bread that delivers impressive results with minimal effort. Their golden crust and airy interior make them a favorite at any meal. Whether you serve them with butter and jam or alongside a hearty stew, popovers are sure to win everyone over.

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