Skip to main content

Teatime Perfect Popovers

This classic popover recipe is a vegetarian teatime essential, celebrated for its dramatic rise and crisp, golden exterior. Similar to a traditional Yorkshire pudding but lighter and more buttery, these individual bakes rely on a hot tin and aerated batter to achieve their signature hollow centres. They are best served warm from the oven, offering a delightful contrast between the crunchy crust and the soft, steam-filled middle.

Ideal for a weekend brunch or as a refined accompaniment to a savoury afternoon spread, these popovers are surprisingly simple to prepare with just five basic larder staples. Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to guarantee the most impressive rise. Pair them with a spoonful of fruit preserve for a sweet treat, or serve alongside a hearty soup for a comforting, homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Teatime Perfect Popovers

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into 6 pieces

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, at room temperature

  • 240ml whole milk, at room temperature

  • 130g plain flour

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

How to make Teatime Perfect Popovers

Preheat the oven to 204°C for 20 minutes. Place 1 piece of butter in the bottom of each cup of a six-cup popover tin (or six 1/2-cup custard cups). Place the popover pan on a baking sheet.

In a smaller bowl, lightly whisk the eggs until they change colour. Whisk in the milk.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt until well blended. Gently whisk the egg mixture into the flour mixture until only small lumps are left, and set aside.

Place the popover tin and baking sheet in the oven for 4 minutes. At 3 minutes, give the batter a light whisk. Using an oven mitt, remove the hot tin from the oven and immediately divide the batter among the prepared cups. Bake for 25 minutes without opening the oven door. The popovers will be puffy, with crisp brown crusts and hollow, moist interiors. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.