Popovers with Butter and Jam

Popovers with butter and jam are a timeless classic that beautifully showcase how a few simple pantry ingredients can transform into something truly special. Crisp on the outside and airy on the inside, popovers are known for their dramatic rise and hollow centers, making them perfect for filling with melting butter and sweet fruit jam. Rooted in classic American baking and inspired by Yorkshire pudding, popovers are a breakfast or brunch favorite that feels both comforting and elegant.

Whether served fresh from the oven for a weekend breakfast, brunch gathering, or afternoon tea, these golden popovers offer a light, delicate texture that pairs wonderfully with rich butter and bright, fruity jams.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet always impressive. Watching the popovers rise tall in the oven is pure baking magic, and the contrast between the crisp shell and soft interior never disappoints. Served warm with butter and jam, they feel indulgent without being heavy.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Requires just a handful of ingredients
• Light, airy texture with a crisp exterior
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or tea time
• Customizable with sweet or savory toppings
• Looks impressive with minimal effort

Preparation Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 6 popovers
• Calories: Approximately 170–190 calories per popover (with butter and jam)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Breakfast / Brunch
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt

For Serving

• Soft butter
• Fruit jam or preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven and popover pan.
2. Mix batter until smooth.
3. Fill heated pan and bake without opening oven.
4. Serve immediately with butter and jam.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a popover pan (or muffin tin) in the oven to heat. Lightly grease each cup.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a bowl, whisk eggs and milk until fully combined. Add flour and salt, whisking until smooth. Stir in melted butter. The batter should be thin and lump-free.

Step 3: Fill the Pan

Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Fill each cup about ½ to ⅔ full with batter.

Step 4: Bake

Return pan to oven and bake at 450°F for 20 minutes. Without opening the oven, reduce temperature to 350°F (180°C) and bake for another 15 minutes until puffed and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Remove popovers from the pan and serve immediately while hot.

How to Serve

• Split open and spread with butter and jam
• Serve alongside coffee or tea
• Pair with fresh fruit for brunch
• Enjoy with honey or flavored butter

Recipe Tips

• Use room-temperature ingredients for maximum rise
• Do not open the oven during baking
• Preheating the pan is essential for crispness
• Serve immediately—popovers deflate as they cool

Variations

Sweet Cinnamon Popovers

Add 1 teaspoon sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.

Vanilla Popovers

Mix in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a dessert-style popover.

Savory Popovers

Omit jam and serve with butter, cheese, or herbs.

Whole Wheat Popovers

Use half whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Mini Popovers

Use a mini muffin pan and reduce baking time by 8–10 minutes.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

• Best enjoyed fresh
• Store leftovers at room temperature for 1 day

Freezing

• Freeze baked popovers for up to 1 month
• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes

Special Equipment Needed

• Popover pan or muffin tin
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Oven

Conclusion

Popovers with butter and jam are a beautiful reminder that simple baking can be truly magical. With their crisp exteriors, airy centers, and endless serving possibilities, these popovers are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. Easy to make yet visually impressive, they’re a recipe worth mastering and sharing.