Are you looking for a show-stopping side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these delightful Betty Crocker popovers! These light and airy puffs are the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or even a simple salad. They’re a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can deliver delicious dishes without complicated techniques. This recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks seeking easy recipes and experienced chefs looking for a reliable, classic method. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these perfectly puffed-up treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high heat is crucial for creating those beautiful, airy popovers.
- Generously grease a 12-cup popover pan with melted butter. You can use a pastry brush for even coverage. Make sure to coat the sides well; this helps them climb the sides of the pan.
Mixing the Batter:
- In a blender, combine the flour, milk, eggs, and salt. Blend on high speed for 1 minute until the batter is completely smooth. Avoid overmixing – a few lumps are okay.
- Stir in the melted butter.
Baking the Popovers:
- Fill each popover cup about two-thirds full. Don't overfill; this will prevent them from rising properly.
- Immediately place the pan in the preheated oven. This is important for achieving a good rise.
- Bake for 20 minutes. Resist the urge to open the oven door during the first 20 minutes! This will cause the popovers to deflate.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Carefully remove the popovers from the oven and immediately serve. Popovers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
Tips for Perfect Popovers:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients helps create a smoother batter and promotes better rising.
- Don't open the oven door: As mentioned, resisting the urge to peek during the initial baking phase is crucial for achieving maximum puffiness.
- Let the batter rest: For even better results, allow the batter to rest for 15-20 minutes before baking. This allows the gluten to relax and produces a lighter texture.
- Experiment with flavors: Add herbs, cheese, or spices to the batter for variations.
Variations:
- Cheesy Popovers: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
- Herb Popovers: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or rosemary.
- Sweet Popovers: Add a touch of sugar and vanilla extract for a sweeter treat.
Nutritional Information (per popover, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-8g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
These Betty Crocker popovers are a fantastic addition to any meal, showcasing the best of homemade cooking and easy recipes. They're a quick dinner idea, perfect for weeknights, or a delightful addition to a special occasion. Enjoy!