Name: Mini Brown Butter Popovers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 14 teaspoons plus 4 tablespoons Salted Butter; 1.5 cups Whole Milk (at room temperature); 3 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1 tablespoon Salted Butter (melted); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1.5 cups All Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar; 2-3 teaspoons Lemon Zest; 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Powder ((optional)); 2 cups Sliced Strawberries; 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar; 2 tablespoons Strawberry Jam; 1 tablespoon St. Germain (Elderflower Liquor) ((optional))

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked popovers wafting through the kitchen, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Mini Brown Butter Popovers. I remember the first time I tried my hand at making them; the anticipation grew as I watched them puff up in the oven, transforming from a simple batter into golden, airy delights. It was a Sunday brunch, and my friends were gathering around the table, eagerly waiting to indulge. These popovers are not just a treat for the eyes but for the palate too. The flavor of brown butter adds a nutty richness that elevates them from ordinary to extraordinary. When topped with jammy strawberries, they become a celebration of flavors, perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a sweet snack, these popovers are a delightful choice.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan

What We Adore About This Mini Brown Butter Popovers

Perfectly Light Texture

The beauty of Mini Brown Butter Popovers lies in their light, airy structure. The steam created during baking puffs them up to create a magnificent dome. Each bite is a balance of crispness on the outside and softness within, leaving you craving more.

Rich Flavor with Brown Butter

Using brown butter in this recipe brings depth and nuttiness that plain butter simply can’t achieve. The browning process enhances the flavor, creating a warm, sophisticated taste that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.

Versatile and Customizable

What I love about these popovers is their versatility. You can serve them sweet, with toppings like strawberry jam and freshly sliced strawberries, or even savory, with cheese or herbs. They can adapt to whatever flavor profile you’re in the mood for, making them perfect for any occasion.

Quick and Simple to Make

Despite their impressive appearance, these popovers require minimal effort. A few simple ingredients, a whisk, and a hot oven are all you need. In about 40 minutes, you can have a batch ready to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Great for Sharing

These popovers are perfect for gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to share. Serve them warm at brunch, and watch as they disappear in no time. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Seasonal Delight

With the addition of fresh strawberries, this recipe is especially delightful in spring when strawberries are in season. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of the season and enjoy the freshness they bring.

What’s In This Mini Brown Butter Popovers

Creating the perfect Mini Brown Butter Popovers involves a harmonious blend of ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving that desired puff and flavor. The combination of flour, milk, and eggs creates the base for the batter, while brown butter elevates it to a new level of richness. The addition of strawberries and jam brings a beautiful sweetness that balances the savory notes. Together, these ingredients work seamlessly to create a treat that is both comforting and sophisticated.

14 teaspoons plus 4 tablespoons salted butter: Essential for richness and flavor, the butter is both melted and brown, contributing to the nutty taste and texture of the popovers.
1 1/2 cups whole milk at room temperature: The milk hydrates the dry ingredients and helps create the steam necessary for the popovers to rise.
3 large eggs at room temperature: Eggs add structure and richness to the batter while also helping with the puffing process.
1 tablespoon melted salted butter: This is added to the batter for extra flavor and moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the sweetness and overall flavor profile.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the popovers, it helps create the light and airy texture we love.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: A necessary addition to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
1/3 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness, making the popovers perfect for pairing with fruit toppings.
2-3 teaspoons lemon zest: Offers a fresh, citrusy zing that brightens the flavor of the popovers.
1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (optional): For an added depth of vanilla flavor; it’s optional but recommended for those who love a rich flavor.
2 cups sliced strawberries: Fresh strawberries add sweetness and freshness, making them a delightful topping.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Used to macerate the strawberries, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a jammy texture.
2 tablespoons strawberry jam: A delicious spread that complements the flavors of the popovers.
1 tablespoon St. Germain (elderflower liquor) (optional): An optional ingredient that can add a floral note to the strawberries.

Recipe Steps for Mini Brown Butter Popovers

Making Mini Brown Butter Popovers is as enjoyable as it is rewarding. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve that perfect puff and golden finish. Let’s get started!

Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat it to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that initial pop in the popovers.
Place 1 teaspoon of butter in each cup of a standard 12-cup muffin pan. Transfer the pan to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and the pan to heat up. You want the pan screaming hot to help the popovers rise beautifully.
In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk together the milk and eggs until frothy, about 1 minute. This aeration is key! Add 1 tablespoon melted butter, vanilla, flour, and salt. Whisk until combined. It’s perfectly fine if there are small lumps in the batter; they will work themselves out during baking.
Carefully remove the pan from the oven, and swirl the melted butter around the cups to grease them well. Then evenly divide the batter among the popover cups, filling them about 3/4 full. This gives them room to puff up!
Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until they are puffed, golden, and crisp. Resist the urge to open the oven door during baking, as this can lead to deflation.
To make the brown butter, add 4 tablespoons of butter to a skillet set over medium heat. Allow the butter to brown, swirling it occasionally, until it smells toasted and is a deep golden color, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove it from the heat and set aside.
In a shallow bowl, combine granulated sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla powder. This mixture adds a lovely citrusy sweetness to the popovers.
For the strawberries, toss the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and the optional St. Germain. Let them sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time will allow them to release their juices and create a delicious topping.
Once the popovers are done baking, brush each warm one with the brown butter, then roll them through the lemon-sugar mixture. Finally, smear each popover with butter and top with the strawberries. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!

Things Worth Knowing

Popovers need a hot oven to rise properly. The initial heat creates steam, which is essential for puffing them up.
Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Cold ingredients can hinder the puffing process.
Don’t open the oven while the popovers are baking. This can cause them to deflate and ruin their airy texture.
You can experiment with different fillings and toppings. Try adding cheese for a savory version or other fruit for a twist!

Change It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some creative ideas to customize your Mini Brown Butter Popovers:

Storage: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the baked popovers for up to 1 month. Just reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.
Pairing: Serve these popovers with a side of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option.
Variations: Swap out the strawberries for other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
Savory Twist: Introduce herbs like rosemary or thyme into the batter for a delightful savory flavor.

Side Dish Ideas for Mini Brown Butter Popovers

When it comes to serving your Mini Brown Butter Popovers, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

Breakfast Delight: Enjoy these popovers as part of a lavish breakfast spread, alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon.
Brunch Showstopper: Serve them at a weekend brunch with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a selection of jams and honeys for dipping.
Light Lunch: Pair with a crisp salad dressed in vinaigrette for a light yet satisfying lunch.
Picnic Treat: These popovers are perfect for picnics. They can be made ahead and will stay delicious while you enjoy the outdoors.
Seasonal Serving: During spring, pair them with a refreshing lemon curd for a bright finish.
Party Snack: These popovers can be served with various toppings like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or seasonal fruits for a fun dessert option.

FAQ

Brown butter popovers are light and airy pastry puffs made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk, enhanced by the rich flavor of brown butter. When baked, they puff up dramatically and can be served with various toppings, such as sweet fruits or savory ingredients. The use of brown butter gives them a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible!

To ensure your popovers rise beautifully, it’s crucial to preheat your oven to a high temperature, typically around 450°F (232°C). The heat creates steam, which is essential for the popovers to puff up. Additionally, do not open the oven door while they are baking, as this can cause them to deflate. Using room-temperature ingredients is also key to achieving that perfect texture.

While it’s best to make the batter for brown butter popovers just before baking to ensure maximum puffiness, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance. Mix the flour, salt, and sugar, then store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply whisk in the wet ingredients and bake immediately for the best results.

There are numerous delightful toppings you can use for your popovers! Common choices include fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey. For a savory twist, consider adding herbs, cheese, or even flavored butters. The versatility of popovers makes them perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

These Mini Brown Butter Popovers are an extraordinary way to bring a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of light, airy pastry and the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter creates a delightful treat that is sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a wonderful opportunity to share a special moment with friends and family over delicious food. You’ll find that not only do they look beautiful, but they taste incredible too!