Cornmeal Popovers & Herb Butter

This cornmeal popover recipe transforms simple ingredients into impressive, airy delights that rise dramatically in the oven. The light, crispy exterior gives way to a tender, slightly sweet interior that perfectly complements the herbed honey butter. I discovered this technique during a cooking class years ago and have been perfecting it ever since for family gatherings.

I first made these popovers for a holiday brunch when I was tired of serving the same old pastries. My family was so impressed by how something so simple could taste so special that they've become our tradition for every special occasion breakfast.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the interior tender
• Yellow cornmeal: Adds a subtle crunch and beautiful golden color
• Whole milk: Creates steam that helps the popovers rise dramatically
• Eggs: Provide protein structure that traps air for maximum height
• Melted butter: Enriches the batter and helps create a crisp exterior
• Honey: Brings a touch of sweetness that complements the cornmeal
• Unsalted butter: For the spread, allows you to control the saltiness
• Fresh herbs: Like thyme or rosemary, infuse the butter with aromatic flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan:

Heat your oven to 450°F with the popover pan inside. This crucial preheating step creates immediate steam when the batter hits the hot metal, giving your popovers their signature rise. Wait at least 10 minutes to ensure the pan is thoroughly heated.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup cornmeal, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large bowl until evenly combined. The cornmeal should be finely ground for the best texture. Break up any clumps with your fingers for the smoothest batter possible.

Prepare Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs until frothy, about 1 minute. Warm 1 cup of milk to approximately 110°F before gradually whisking it into the eggs. The warmed milk prevents the melted butter from solidifying when added and helps create more steam in the oven.

Combine and Finish Batter:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients in a steady stream while whisking constantly. Continue mixing until the batter is completely smooth with no lumps. Stir in 2 tablespoons of melted butter and 1 tablespoon of honey. The batter should have the consistency of heavy cream.

Bake the Popovers:

Remove the hot pan from the oven and quickly brush each cup with melted butter. Immediately fill each cup about two thirds full with batter. Place in the oven and bake for exactly 15 minutes at 450°F. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 15 minutes until deeply golden.

Make the Herb Honey Butter:

While the popovers bake, combine 1/2 cup softened butter with 2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs in a bowl. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Let sit at room temperature to allow the herb flavors to infuse.

Serve Immediately:

Pierce each popover with a small knife immediately after removing from the oven to release steam and prevent sogginess. Transfer to a bread basket lined with a cloth napkin and serve while still warm with the herb honey butter.

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My grandmother always said the secret to perfect popovers is patience with the preheating. When I was young, I would watch through the oven window as the simple batter transformed into towering golden treasures. That magical transformation is still my favorite part of making this recipe.

Perfect Popover Troubleshooting

If your popovers are not rising as dramatically as expected, your pan might not be hot enough before adding the batter. The initial blast of heat creates the steam that makes them puff up. Always preheat the pan for at least 10 minutes. Another common mistake is opening the oven door too early. The sudden temperature change will cause them to deflate immediately.

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Delicious Variations

The basic cornmeal popover recipe provides an excellent canvas for creativity. For a savory version perfect with soups or stews, add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of chopped rosemary to the batter. For brunch, try folding in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped scallions and a sprinkle of black pepper. My personal favorite variation includes 1 tablespoon of orange zest in the batter and a touch of cinnamon in the honey butter for a more dessert like treat.

Make Ahead And Storage Tips

While popovers are best enjoyed immediately after baking, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the process. The dry ingredients can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to a month. The herb honey butter freezes beautifully for up to three months. If you need to make popovers in advance, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to recrisp the exterior. Avoid microwaving as this makes them tough and chewy.

Serving Suggestions

These cornmeal popovers make a stunning addition to any meal. Serve them alongside roasted chicken or beef for Sunday dinner, or pair with a hearty vegetable soup for a satisfying lunch. For brunch, I love setting out a basket of warm popovers with both the herb honey butter and some fruit preserves. They also make an impressive starter for dinner parties when filled with a small spoonful of smoked salmon and crème fraîche just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes the texture of these popovers unique?

The cornmeal adds a slight crunch to the exterior while the eggs and milk create a soft, airy interior.

→ Can I customize the flavors of the herb honey butter?

Yes! You can use your favorite fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives. For an extra touch, you can also add a pinch of spice or citrus zest.

→ Are these popovers difficult to make?

No, they are simple to prepare. Just whisk, pour, and bake with a heated pan to achieve their signature rise.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftover popovers?

Popovers can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and warm interior.

→ Can these be made dairy-free?

Yes, substitute almond milk for regular milk and use dairy-free butter to make a dairy-free version.