Yorkshire Pudding is a classic British side dish known for its light, airy texture and golden, crispy exterior. Traditionally served with roast beef and gravy, these delightful puddings are made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk. Perfectly versatile, they can complement any savory meal or even be enjoyed with sweet toppings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light and Crispy: A delicious contrast of textures with a soft center and crispy edges.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasts, stews, or even desserts.
- Impressive Presentation: Adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
- Easy to Make: With a few tips and tricks, you’ll master this recipe in no time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Whole milk
- Salt
- Vegetable oil or beef drippings
Directions
- Prepare the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add eggs. Gradually whisk in the milk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
- Let the batter rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a muffin tin or Yorkshire pudding tray in the oven to heat.
- Add the Oil
- Once the tin is hot, carefully remove it from the oven and pour 1 teaspoon of oil or beef drippings into each cup. Return the tin to the oven for 5 minutes until the oil is smoking hot.
- Pour the Batter
- Carefully remove the hot tin from the oven. Pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway.
- Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the puddings are puffed up and golden brown. Avoid opening the oven during baking to prevent them from deflating.
- Serve
- Remove the puddings from the tin and serve immediately with roast beef, gravy, or your favorite accompaniments.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 12 puddings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Herbed Yorkshire Pudding: Add chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the batter for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Puddings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the batter before baking.
- Mini Toad in the Hole: Add a small sausage to each tin before pouring in the batter.
- Sweet Version: Skip the salt and serve with powdered sugar and jam for a dessert twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled puddings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen.
FAQs
What makes Yorkshire puddings rise?
The combination of hot oil and high oven temperature creates steam that makes the batter puff up dramatically.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 12 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
What’s the best oil to use?
Vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or beef drippings work best due to their high smoke points.
Can I use a regular baking dish instead of a muffin tin?
Yes, you can bake the batter in a single large dish for a giant Yorkshire pudding. Adjust the cooking time to about 30–35 minutes.
Why didn’t my puddings rise?
Ensure the oil is smoking hot before adding the batter, and avoid opening the oven during baking.
Can I add seasoning to the batter?
Yes, feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to enhance the flavor.
Are Yorkshire puddings the same as popovers?
They’re similar, but Yorkshire puddings are traditionally made with beef drippings, giving them a distinct flavor.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
What’s the best way to serve Yorkshire puddings?
They’re perfect with roast beef and gravy, but they also pair well with any roasted meats or even sweet toppings.
Do Yorkshire puddings deflate after baking?
Yes, they may deflate slightly after coming out of the oven, which is normal. Serve immediately to enjoy their puffed-up texture.
Conclusion
Yorkshire Pudding is a timeless classic that elevates any meal with its crispy edges and airy center. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create these delectable puddings at home. Whether served with a roast dinner or enjoyed on their own, they’re a must-try recipe that’s sure to impress!
PrintYorkshire Pudding Recipe
These light and fluffy puddings are the perfect accompaniment to a roast dinner, especially when paired with gravy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (+30 minutes resting)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 puddings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp beef drippings or vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Gradually whisk in the milk until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Let the Batter Rest:
- Cover the bowl and let the batter rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the puddings rise properly.
Preheat the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 12-cup muffin tin or a Yorkshire pudding tin in the oven to heat.
- Add the Fat:
- Once the tin is hot, add about 1/2 tsp of beef drippings or vegetable oil to each cup. Return the tin to the oven and heat until the fat is shimmering and very hot (about 5 minutes).
Bake the Yorkshire Puddings:
- Pour in the Batter:
- Carefully remove the hot tin from the oven. Pour the batter evenly into the cups, filling each about halfway.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puddings are puffed up and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause them to collapse.
Serve:
- Serve Immediately:
- Yorkshire puddings are best served fresh and hot, straight from the oven. Pair them with a roast dinner and plenty of gravy.
Notes
- For an authentic touch, beef drippings are preferred, but vegetable oil works well too.
- Yorkshire puddings can be made ahead and reheated in the oven for 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Batter resting time improves texture and rise but is optional if you’re in a hurry.