Ina Garten’s Popovers are light, airy, and perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside. These golden-brown delights are an excellent addition to breakfast, brunch, or dinner, pairing well with butter, jam, or even savory spreads.

What are Ina Garten Popovers?

Popovers are hollow, puffed pastries made from a simple egg-based batter. Unlike traditional bread, popovers rise dramatically in the oven, creating a crisp outer shell with a soft, custardy interior. Ina Garten’s version ensures a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness, making them a delightful alternative to dinner rolls.

Other Popular Recipes

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Popovers

Easy to make: Requires just a few pantry staples.
Light and airy texture: Crisp on the outside, soft and hollow inside.
Pairs with sweet or savory toppings: Enjoy with butter, jam, or cheese.
No yeast required: Uses steam for a natural rise.
Elegant yet simple: A great addition to any meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Popovers

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/2 cups whole milk, room temperature
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a slightly sweet touch)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the pan)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Popovers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the popover pan: Grease a popover pan or muffin tin with melted butter.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Whisk the eggs and milk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and room-temperature milk until well combined.
Add the dry ingredients: Slowly whisk in the flour and salt until smooth and free of lumps.
Incorporate melted butter: Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract (if using).

Step 3: Fill the Popover Pan

Pour the batter: Evenly divide the batter into the prepared pan, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Step 4: Bake the Popovers

Initial high heat: Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes without opening the oven.
Reduce temperature: Lower the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 5: Serve

Cool slightly: Let the popovers rest for 5 minutes.
Serve warm: Enjoy with butter, jam, or a savory spread.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Popovers

Butter and honey: A simple yet delicious topping.
Fruit preserves: Pairs well with raspberry or apricot jam.
Cheese and herbs: Sprinkle with Parmesan or fresh chives for a savory twist.
Gravy or soup: Serve alongside a hearty soup or roast.
Whipped cream: A light and fluffy topping for a sweet version.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Popovers

Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps create a better rise.
Do not overmix: A few lumps in the batter are fine.
Preheat the pan: A hot pan ensures a quick rise and crisp edges.
Resist opening the oven: Prevents deflation during baking.
Serve immediately: Popovers are best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Popovers

Cheesy popovers: Add 1/2 cup grated Gruyère or cheddar.
Garlic butter version: Brush with garlic-infused butter after baking.
Herb-infused popovers: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme.
Sweet cinnamon popovers: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before serving.
Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate for a dessert version.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Popovers

Store at room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
Reheat before serving: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.
Freeze for later: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Why didn’t my popovers rise properly?

Popovers need a hot oven and a preheated pan for the best rise. Using room-temperature ingredients and avoiding opening the oven door while baking ensures they puff up properly.

Can I make popovers ahead of time?

Popovers are best served fresh, but they can be made ahead and reheated in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

What can I use instead of a popover pan?

A standard muffin tin can be used instead of a popover pan, but the popovers may not rise as high. Fill every other cup to allow space for air circulation.

How do I make popovers crispier?

For crispier popovers, leave them in the oven for an extra 5 minutes with the door slightly ajar to let steam escape.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Popovers are an easy yet impressive addition to any meal, delivering a delightful combination of crispiness and fluffiness.

Try them today and enjoy bakery-quality popovers at home!