Air-Fried Yorkshire Puddings: A Tasty, Quick Treat

Yorkshire puddings are a British classic, traditionally served with a roast dinner. But can you make them in an air fryer? The answer is yes! Using an air fryer is quicker than a conventional oven, and you can still achieve that iconic crispy exterior and soft, doughy inside. Here's a step-by-step guide to making perfect Yorkshire puddings using an air fryer.

Choosing the right ingredients

The key to making delicious Yorkshire puddings in your air fryer is selecting the right ingredients and achieving the correct batter consistency. Here's a detailed guide to help you choose the perfect ingredients for your air fryer Yorkshire puddings:

Flour

For Yorkshire puddings, it is best to use plain or all-purpose flour. This type of flour will give your puddings the right structure and texture. Avoid using self-raising flour, as it can alter the texture and rise of the puddings.

Eggs

Eggs are an essential ingredient in Yorkshire pudding batter. They provide structure, moisture, and flavour. Most recipes call for two to three large eggs, but you can adjust the quantity based on the number of puddings you wish to make.

Milk

Milk is another crucial component of the batter. It adds moisture, contributes to the pudding's colour, and helps create a tender texture. Whole milk or semi-skimmed milk works best for this recipe. Avoid using skimmed milk, as it may not provide enough fat for the desired texture.

Oil or Fat

The choice of oil or fat is important for achieving the signature crispy edges of Yorkshire puddings. You can use vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or even traditional beef dripping. Ensure you use an oil with a high smoking point, and add just the right amount to prevent greasiness.

Seasoning

A pinch of salt is essential in your batter. It enhances the flavour and helps balance the other ingredients. You can also add a pinch of pepper and other seasonings like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra kick of flavour.

Sugar

Although optional, adding a small amount of sugar can create a delightful sweet and savoury flavour profile. This addition is especially appealing if you plan to serve your Yorkshire puddings with sweet toppings or fillings.

Consistency

The consistency of your batter is critical to achieving the perfect rise and texture. Aim for a batter that resembles double cream—not too thick, but not overly runny. This consistency will ensure your puddings puff up nicely and have a light and airy texture.

Remember to allow your batter to rest for at least 30 minutes or even overnight. This resting period lets the flour fully absorb the liquid, resulting in better puffing during cooking.

Preparing the batter

The key to making perfect Yorkshire puddings in your air fryer is to get the batter right. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing the batter:

Gather your ingredients:

• Plain flour (all-purpose flour)
• Milk (semi-skimmed, whole milk, or a mix of milk and water)
• Eggs
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or sugar for a sweet and savoury taste.

• Use a mixing bowl or a large jug to combine the dry ingredients. Add the flour and salt (and any optional seasonings) to your chosen container and stir to combine.
• Add the eggs. Crack the eggs into the bowl or jug, adding a splash of milk to help them combine with the flour. Use a balloon whisk or an electric hand whisk to mix everything together.
• Gradually add the remaining milk. Keep whisking as you slowly pour in the milk to create a smooth, lump-free batter. If you're using an electric hand whisk, be careful not to overmix the batter.
• Achieve the right consistency. The batter should be similar to double or heavy cream—not too thick but not overly runny. Adjust with a little more milk or flour if needed.
• Rest the batter. Once your batter is mixed, let it rest for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the refrigerator. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in better puffing during cooking.

Now that your batter is ready, it's time to preheat your air fryer and prepare your muffin tins or moulds. Follow the subsequent steps in your chosen air fryer Yorkshire pudding recipe for cooking instructions and serving suggestions.

Preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in achieving the perfect Yorkshire puddings. It ensures that the appliance is hot enough to start cooking immediately, which is essential for the puddings to rise properly.

First, prepare your muffin tin or moulds. Place a silicone muffin tin, ramekins, or cake tins in the air fryer basket. If you're using a silicone muffin tin, add half a teaspoon of vegetable baking fat or sunflower oil to each mould. If you're using metal tins, drizzle around half a teaspoon of oil into each of the four moulds.

Next, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 200°C/400°F and let it run empty for about 5 minutes, or until the oil is very hot and smoking. Some recipes suggest preheating for 10 minutes, while others recommend 2-3 minutes.

Once your air fryer is preheated, you can proceed to the next step of pouring the batter into the moulds. Work quickly, as you want to get the batter cooking as soon as possible so it puffs up nicely.

Pouring the batter

Now, it's time to pour the batter. Add a small amount of oil or beef dripping to each cup of your muffin tin or silicone cups. Place the tins in the air fryer for a minute to heat the oil.

Then, working quickly, carefully pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway. The hot oil will help create the crispy edges as the batter puffs up.

Pour the batter into each hot greased muffin cup. Fill it only halfway.

If you are using ramekins, you can pour the batter directly into them.

Air frying the puddings

Air-frying the puddings is a quick and easy way to make this British classic. The compact air fryer is perfectly suited to cook Yorkshire puddings, and you can make them in half the time with less mess!

First, prepare your batter by mixing your dry ingredients in a bowl. You can add a pinch of seasoning at this stage if you like. Then, gradually add the milk and eggs, stirring continuously to create a smooth, lump-free batter. The consistency should be similar to double or heavy cream. Cover the batter and leave it to rest for at least 30 minutes or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flour to fully absorb the liquid, which will help the puddings puff up during cooking.

While the batter rests, preheat your air fryer to 200°C/400°F. Preheating is crucial as it ensures the air fryer is hot enough to cook the puddings immediately, helping them to rise properly. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat function, simply set it to the correct temperature and let it run empty for about 5 minutes.

Next, add a small amount of oil or beef dripping to each cup of your muffin tin or silicone cups. Place the tins in the air fryer for a minute to heat the oil. Then, working quickly, carefully pour the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway. The hot oil will help create the Yorkshire puddings' signature crispy edges as the batter puffs up.

Now it's time to cook your Yorkshire puddings! Air fry at 200°C/400°F for around 10-12 minutes. Avoid opening the air fryer during the first 8 minutes, as this can cause the puddings to deflate. After 10 minutes, use tongs to flip them over and cook for another 3-5 minutes for small puddings and up to 10 minutes for larger ones. The puddings are ready when they are golden, puffed up, and light as air. If they still feel heavy, continue cooking for a little longer.

Finally, serve your Yorkshire puddings immediately with your favourite roast dinner and plenty of gravy!

Frequently asked questions