Golden, airy, and perfectly crisp on the outside with a delicate custard-like center—these Easy Homemade Popovers are your new go-to for an effortlessly elegant side. No need for a fancy popover pan here; just grab your trusty muffin tin and you’re on your way to baking magic.

Whether you’re serving these for breakfast with jam and butter or as a dinner roll alongside a hearty stew, these popovers impress with their towering rise and irresistible texture. They come together with only a few pantry staples and require no yeast, no kneading, and barely any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Homemade Popovers in a Muffin Tin

No Special Equipment Required: Just a regular muffin tin—no need to hunt down a popover pan.
Light and Crisp Texture: The steam-created lift gives them a hollow, crisp structure that’s impossible to resist.
Versatile and Customizable: Enjoy sweet with honey and fruit, or savory with herbs and cheese.
Minimal Ingredients: Pantry staples like eggs, milk, flour, and butter make this a recipe you can whip up anytime.
Quick Bake Time: Ready in about 30 minutes start to finish.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into mixing, it’s essential to understand the setup that helps your popovers achieve their signature puff:

Muffin Tin: The hero of this recipe. A standard 12-cup muffin tin works beautifully and lets the batter climb high.
Oven Thermometer (Optional but Recommended): Popovers rely on precise heat for the rise, so an accurate oven is key.
Mixing Bowl + Whisk: These help you blend the ingredients smoothly without overworking the batter.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters in baking, and popovers are no exception.
Ladle or Pouring Cup: For cleanly transferring the thin batter into hot muffin wells.
Nonstick Spray or Melted Butter: Greasing the tin ensures easy release and promotes even browning.

These tools are simple, but each plays a crucial role in delivering those high-domed, airy popovers you see in bakeries. Heating the tin beforehand also contributes to the fast steam action that drives the dramatic rise.

Ingredients for the Easy Homemade Popovers in a Muffin Tin

Let’s look at the simple ingredients that give these popovers their signature puff and flavor:

Eggs: Provide structure and help with steam-powered rise.
Whole Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
All-Purpose Flour: The main base that gives the popovers their light structure.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Unsalted Butter: For richness and that golden exterior.
Nonstick Cooking Spray or Extra Butter (for the pan): Prevents sticking and promotes browning.

Each ingredient is essential for achieving the right balance of airiness, flavor, and crisp texture. No leavening agents are needed—the magic happens with steam and heat!

How To Make the Easy Homemade Popovers in a Muffin Tin

Step 1: Preheat Everything

Place the muffin tin in the oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C). A hot pan helps the batter puff quickly for that dramatic rise.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until frothy. Then add flour and salt, whisking until just combined. A few small lumps are okay. Stir in the melted butter.

Step 3: Grease the Muffin Tin

Once preheated, carefully remove the muffin tin. Generously grease each cup with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Fill the Cups

Quickly pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway. Work swiftly so the pan stays hot.

Step 5: Bake and Don’t Peek

Bake at 450°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. Do not open the oven door during this time or the popovers may collapse.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Once deeply golden and puffed, remove popovers from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Pierce each with a knife to let steam escape and maintain crispness.

Serve warm and enjoy immediately for best texture.

How to Serve and Store These Popovers

Serve these popovers fresh out of the oven for the best experience. Their crispy outer shell and soft, steamy interior are at peak perfection when warm. Enjoy them with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or even filled with jam for a sweet breakfast treat. They also make a fabulous companion to savory dishes like soups, roast chicken, or stews.

To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4. To reheat, pop them back in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes until warmed and crisp again.

Avoid microwaving—it softens their signature crisp shell.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes popovers rise without baking powder?

Popovers rise thanks to steam. The high heat and moisture in the batter cause them to puff dramatically, no leavening needed.

Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute almond, soy, or oat milk. Just keep in mind it may slightly affect texture and flavor.

Why do I have to preheat the muffin tin?

A hot tin creates instant steam when the batter hits it, jumpstarting the rise that makes popovers so airy.

Can I make these ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can bake them a few hours in advance and reheat in the oven to revive the crispness.

How do I keep popovers from collapsing?

Avoid opening the oven door during baking. Also, pierce them with a knife right after baking to release steam and help maintain shape.

Can I add cheese or herbs?

Absolutely! Add shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or even garlic powder to the batter for a savory twist.

Want More Bread and Muffin Ideas?

If you love how quick and satisfying these popovers are, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting and creative recipes from the Kitchen by Kate collection:

Try the comforting, cheesy goodness of Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Cooking.
For something savory with a golden crisp, check out the Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions.
Craving more baked treats? The Easy Fluffy Blueberry Muffin Recipe is a must-bake.
If you’re in the mood for sweet breads, the Honey Butter Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread will absolutely delight.
Don’t skip the Simple Potato Pancakes Recipe for a Fast Meal when you want something crispy and cozy.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest bread or breakfast board so you can make it anytime you need an easy, impressive side.

And if you tried them, I’d love to hear! Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist—like shredded cheddar or fresh chives?

Want more cozy, everyday recipes? Follow me on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate for daily inspiration and more reader-favorite ideas.

Easy Homemade Popovers in a Muffin Tin

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Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 popovers
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Easy Homemade Popovers in a Muffin Tin are light, golden, and crisp with a custard-like interior—made without a popover pan! Perfect for breakfast or dinner, they come together fast with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, and flour. A no-fail side dish or breakfast treat you’ll bake again and again.