Are you tired of flat, disappointing popovers? Do you live at a high altitude and feel like perfectly puffed pastries are a culinary myth? Think again! This popover recipe is specifically designed to conquer the challenges of high-altitude baking, ensuring you achieve those glorious, airy, and golden-brown peaks every single time. Get ready to elevate your brunch game (and your baking confidence!) with these delightful homemade treats. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, a special brunch, or simply a delicious and healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature (this is key for high-altitude baking!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk, at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing the popover pan
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This higher temperature is crucial for that initial puff. For high altitude adjustments, you may need to increase the temperature slightly; start with 460°F and monitor carefully. Generously grease a 6-cup popover pan with melted butter, ensuring every cup is thoroughly coated.
Whisk it up: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and salt until light and frothy. This step incorporates air, vital for creating those airy pockets.
Add the flour: Gradually whisk in the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tough popovers.
Melt and mingle: Gently stir in the melted butter.
Fill and bake: Fill each cup of the prepared popover pan about two-thirds full.
The crucial bake: Bake for 20 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the popovers are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. High-altitude baking often requires a slightly longer baking time.
Cool and serve: Carefully remove the popovers from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments—butter, jam, or even a savory filling!
Tips for High-Altitude Baking Success:
- Room temperature ingredients: This is paramount for proper emulsification and even baking.
- Don't open the oven door: Resist the urge to peek during the initial 20 minutes. Opening the oven door can cause the popovers to deflate.
- Adjust baking time: High altitude baking often requires a slightly longer baking time. Keep a close eye on your popovers and adjust as needed.
- Experiment with flour: Some high-altitude bakers find success using a blend of all-purpose and bread flour.
Variations:
- Cheese Popovers: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.
- Herb Popovers: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or rosemary, to the batter.
- Sweet Popovers: Add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter.
Nutritional Information (per popover, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 Fat: 6-8g Protein: 3-4g Carbohydrates: 10-12g
This recipe is a delicious and healthy meal option, perfect for a quick dinner or a special brunch. Enjoy the perfectly puffed popovers – a testament to your high-altitude baking prowess!