There’s a certain joy in the kitchen that comes from the simplest of pleasures, like the delicate puffs of dough transforming into golden-brown Cinnamon Sugar Popovers. The moment you open the oven door to reveal these delightful treats, the warm, sweet aroma envelops your space and nearly feels like a hug from your favorite childhood memory.
I discovered popovers on a chilly evening, looking for a way to bring a touch of comfort to my table. Little did I know that this seemingly effortless recipe would lead to a scrumptious, airy treat that the whole family would adore.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time spent in the kitchen, you’ll have a treat that’s versatile enough for brunch or a cozy dinner. Whether you choose to savor them warm with butter or roll them in cinnamon sugar for a sweet finish, these popovers are sure to become a homemade favorite that replaces any fast-food craving! So, dust off that popover pan and let’s get started!
Why are Cinnamon Sugar Popovers so irresistible?
Simplicity: This recipe uses just a few pantry staples, making it easy for anyone to whip up a batch.
Sweet Aroma: As they bake, your home will fill with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and sugar, a true comfort food experience.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful breakfast, a snack, or a dessert—perfect for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will be impressed by these fluffy, golden delights that look as wonderful as they taste.
Quick to Make: With just under an hour from start to finish, you can satisfy any sweet tooth without much effort!
Cinnamon Sugar Popovers Ingredients
For the Batter
• All-purpose flour – this forms the base of your popovers, giving them structure.
• Kosher salt – enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Eggs – these provide the necessary lift for airy, puffed popovers, so make sure they’re at room temperature!
• Whole milk – adds richness and moisture; room temperature helps achieve the perfect consistency.
• Melted butter – contributes flavor and helps create that delightful texture in the popovers.
For Topping
• Granulated sugar – adds that sweet touch you’ll crave; feel free to adjust according to your taste!
• Cinnamon – the star of the show in these Cinnamon Sugar Popovers, bringing warmth and a cozy feeling.
• Melted butter – used to brush over the popovers before rolling in the cinnamon sugar, ensuring it sticks perfectly.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Popovers
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Preheat your oven to 400˚F / 205˚C. Make sure to position your oven racks far apart to allow the popovers ample room to rise and expand beautifully.
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Blend together the flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, and salt in a blender until you achieve a smooth batter. Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature so it can develop flavor and texture.
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Grease your popover pan lightly with high-heat oil. Pop the pan in the oven for 5-10 minutes to get it nice and hot, which helps the popovers puff up perfectly.
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Fill each popover tin halfway with the batter. Take care not to overfill, as these delightful puffs will expand quite a bit in the oven.
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Bake the popovers for 30-35 minutes until they’re golden brown and puffed high. Resist the temptation to open the oven door during baking—trust the process!
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Mix together the cinnamon and sugar in a bowl while the popovers are baking, creating the sweet topping that will elevate your treats.
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Cool the popovers slightly after removing them from the pan. Brush each warm popover with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until generously coated. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!
Optional: Serve with additional melted butter for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Popovers are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by blending all the ingredients and refrigerating the mixture in an airtight container. Just remember to let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using it, as this helps improve texture. Additionally, you can pre-measure the cinnamon and sugar topping so you’re ready to roll when the popovers come out of the oven. When it’s time to bake, simply follow steps 3 to 7 in the original recipe, and you’ll have fresh, delicious popovers ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Popovers
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and milk for a smooth batter. This helps create the perfect rise in your popovers.
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Preheat Thoroughly: Make sure both your oven and popover pan are adequately preheated. This step is crucial for getting those delightful puffed shapes!
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Don’t Open the Door: Resisting the temptation to peek while baking is essential. Opening the oven door can cause your popovers to deflate.
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Grease Wisely: Use a high-heat oil to grease the pan to prevent sticking. Avoid butter if possible, as it can burn and affect your popovers.
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Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar and cinnamon amounts in the topping based on your preference; more or less will customize your Cinnamon Sugar Popovers to your taste.
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Serve Warm: These popovers are best enjoyed warm right after rolling in the cinnamon sugar. They lose their fluffy texture as they cool, so dig in right away!
Cinnamon Sugar Popover Variations
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen by customizing your Cinnamon Sugar Popovers with these exciting twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delightful gluten-free option.
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Dairy-Free: Replace whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of melted butter for a delicious dairy-free treat.
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Choco-Peanut: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips and a swirl of peanut butter into the batter; this creates an indulgent sweet surprise.
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Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme and a pinch of parmesan cheese to turn them into a savory delight.
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Berry Infusion: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter before baking for a fruity explosion of flavor.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle with a warm maple syrup glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for a cozy touch that everyone will love.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Create a cinnamon sugar swirl by layering 1 tablespoon of cinnamon sugar in the middle of the batter before filling the tins.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg to the batter for a surprising warmth that elevates your popovers to the next level.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Popovers?
Create a delightful brunch experience with these fluffy, sweet puffs that beckon for perfect partners at your table.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of popovers, adding a vibrant burst of flavor. A refreshing touch that lightens the meal beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luxurious finish. It’s a perfect spread for your warm popovers, enhancing their decadent nature.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle some rich maple syrup on your popovers for an indulgent treat. The maple’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the cinnamon sugar topping.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs create a savory counterpart. They provide protein while the popovers offer a delightful sweetness, striking a lovely balance.
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Hot Chocolate: For cozy mornings, a mug of hot chocolate adds warmth and makes this combination a comforting favorite. The chocolate richness contrasts deliciously with the popovers.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh fruits brings a refreshing contrast to the buttery popovers. The vibrant colors and textures enliven your brunch table perfectly.
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Coffee: A rich cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness, providing a luscious contrast to the popovers. It’s a classic combination that feels comforting and inviting.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side. The tangy yogurt contrasts the sweetness while adding a nutritious element to your meal.
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Ice Cream: For dessert, top your warm popovers with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and cold temperature create a divine blend that feels indulgent and special.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Popovers
Room Temperature: Enjoy your popovers fresh for up to 2 hours after baking. They’re best served warm and fluffy, so it’s ideal to consume them shortly after preparation.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your popovers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen popovers, reheat directly from the freezer at 350˚F (175˚C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy on the outside.
Cinnamon Sugar Popovers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right eggs for my popovers?
Absolutely! For the best results, use large eggs that are at room temperature. They help create an airy texture in your popovers. If you’re short on time, you can place cold eggs in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to quickly bring them to the right temperature.
What is the best way to store leftover popovers?
For up to 3 days, store your leftover popovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To keep them fluffy, reheat them in the oven at 350˚F (175˚C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of their original texture and warmth.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Popovers?
Yes, you can! Allow your popovers to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat directly from the freezer at 350˚F (175˚C) for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my popovers don’t rise?
Very well! If your popovers don’t puff up as expected, there are a few common issues to consider:
- Make sure your oven and popover pan are preheated adequately—this is crucial for the initial rise.
- Avoid opening the oven door while they bake, as this can cause them to deflate.
- Check that your batter is well-blended and not overmixed, which can inhibit the air pockets needed for rising.
Are there any dietary concerns with Cinnamon Sugar Popovers?
Yes, definitely! If you or anyone you serve these popovers to has a gluten sensitivity or is allergic to eggs, consider gluten-free flour alternatives and egg substitutes. I’ve had success with aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg replacement for a fluffier texture, but results may vary.
How can I tell when my popovers are done baking?
The more the merrier! Your popovers are ready when they’re golden brown and have puffed beautifully. They should feel light and airy when you gently tap the tops. If in doubt, you can do a skewer test: inserting a toothpick into one; it should come out clean without any wet batter. Enjoy the baking experience!
Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Popovers for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400˚F / 205˚C. Make sure to position your oven racks far apart.
- Blend together the flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, and salt in a blender until smooth. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Grease your popover pan lightly with high-heat oil. Heat the pan in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
- Fill each popover tin halfway with the batter, taking care not to overfill.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Do not open the oven door during baking.
- Mix together the cinnamon and sugar in a bowl while the popovers are baking.
- Cool the popovers slightly, brush with melted butter, and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.