Cornmeal Popovers with Herb Honey Butter

Short Description

Cornmeal popovers with herb honey butter are light, airy, and slightly crispy on the outside with a subtle sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or a unique addition to any meal, these popovers pair beautifully with the rich and flavorful herb-infused honey butter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and fluffy texture with a crispy crust
• A touch of sweetness from the honey butter
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish
• Customizable with different herbs and flavors

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Popovers:

• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Butter, melted
• Salt

For the Herb Honey Butter:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Honey
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or chives)
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a popover pan or muffin tin in the oven to heat up.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, cornmeal, and salt, whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and grease each cup with butter or oil.
6. Fill each cup halfway with the batter.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
8. While the popovers bake, mix softened butter with honey, chopped herbs, and salt until well combined.
9. Serve the popovers warm with a generous spread of herb honey butter.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 popovers
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan to the batter.
• Spicy Version: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Sweet Option: Add a bit of cinnamon and extra honey for a sweeter version.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with basil, oregano, or dill for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover popovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze baked popovers for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQs

Why didn’t my popovers rise?

Make sure your batter is smooth, your oven is fully preheated, and your pan is hot before adding the batter.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! Prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Do I need a special popover pan?

No, a muffin tin works fine, though popover pans create taller, more dramatic results.

Can I substitute the milk?

Yes, you can use almond or oat milk, but whole milk gives the best texture.

What’s the best way to mix the batter?

Whisking by hand is best to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense popovers.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use half the amount as dried herbs are more potent.

How do I prevent popovers from deflating?

Avoid opening the oven door while baking, and let them cool slightly before removing from the pan.

What can I serve with these popovers?

They pair well with soups, roasted meats, or as a breakfast treat with jam.

Can I make mini popovers?

Yes, use a mini muffin tin and reduce baking time by about 5 minutes.

What if I don’t have cornmeal?

You can replace it with an equal amount of flour, though the texture will be different.

Conclusion

Cornmeal popovers with herb honey butter are a delightful, airy treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether served with a savory meal or as a light snack, these popovers bring warmth and comfort with every bite. Try different variations to make them your own!

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