Air-Fried Yorkshire Puddings: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to make Yorkshire puddings, using an air fryer could be your answer. The cooking time varies depending on the recipe, but it typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes to cook Yorkshire puddings in an air fryer. Some recipes suggest cooking the puddings for 10 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for a further 5–10 minutes. Others suggest cooking for 20 minutes without flipping.

What temperature should the air fryer be set to?

The ideal temperature for cooking Yorkshire puddings in an air fryer is 200°C/400°F. This temperature should be used for both heating up the oil and cooking the puddings.

Some recipes suggest a slightly lower temperature of 180°C, but it is important to note that a lower temperature may result in a less golden texture.

It is also worth noting that air fryers can vary, so a small amount of trial and error may be required to achieve perfect results.

How long should the oil be heated for?

Heating the oil is a crucial step in making Yorkshire puddings in an air fryer, as it ensures the puddings cook through properly and achieve the desired golden texture. The recommended heating time for the oil is around 5 to 10 minutes. This duration allows the oil to reach the optimal temperature, which is typically between 180°C and 200°C (360°F) and 400°F.

During this heating process, the oil should be placed in the chosen moulds or tins, such as silicone muffin tins, ramekins, or pudding tins, and then placed in the air fryer. This ensures that the oil is hot and sizzling before the batter is added, which is essential for achieving the characteristic crispness and puffiness of Yorkshire puddings.

It is important to note that the type of oil used can also impact the heating time. For example, beef dripping, the traditional choice for Yorkshire puddings, may take slightly longer to heat up compared to other options like vegetable oil or sunflower oil.

Additionally, the amount of oil used will depend on the size and number of moulds being used. Typically, a small amount, such as half a teaspoon, is added to each mould to ensure even heating and prevent the puddings from sticking.

Once the oil is heated, the batter can be quickly poured into the moulds, and the cooking process can begin. This prompt action ensures that the air fryer remains at the desired temperature, and the puddings cook through evenly.

In summary, heating the oil for 5 to 10 minutes at the appropriate temperature is a critical step in achieving the desired texture and flavour of Yorkshire puddings cooked in an air fryer.

What is the best oil to use?

The oil you use for your Yorkshire puddings will depend on the type of flavour you want to achieve, as well as the availability of the oil.

Beef Dripping

The traditional way to cook Yorkshire puddings is to use beef dripping. This is the best option for achieving the classic Yorkshire pudding taste. However, if you are unable to source beef dripping, there are other options you can use that will still produce delicious results.

Goose or Duck Fat

If you are unable to get beef dripping, goose or duck fat is a good alternative. This was confirmed by one source whose author lived in Portugal and was unable to get beef dripping, so they used leftover goose or duck fat with tasty results.

Vegetable Oil

If you are looking for a vegetarian option, extra virgin olive oil is a good substitute. You can also use sunflower oil or vegetable oil, which have high smoking points, making them suitable for cooking Yorkshire puddings.

Other Options

Other options include lard or vegetable baking fat, such as Trex.

How Much Oil to Use

When cooking Yorkshire puddings in an air fryer, you will need to add a small amount of oil to each cup of your muffin tin or silicone cups. The exact amount will depend on the size of your cups, but typically you will need around half a teaspoon of oil per cup.

Heating the Oil

Before adding the batter, heat the oil in the air fryer for approximately one minute to ensure it is hot enough. This step is important as it helps create the crispy edges that are characteristic of Yorkshire puddings.

Tips for Using Oil

• Don't use too much oil, as this can make your puddings greasy.
• Don't use too little oil, as this may prevent the puddings from rising properly.
• Work quickly once the batter is poured to ensure the oil doesn't cool down.
• Avoid opening the air fryer during the first 8 minutes of cooking, as this can cause the puddings to deflate.

How long do you cook them for?

The cooking time for Yorkshire puddings in an air fryer varies depending on the recipe and the size of the puddings. However, on average, they take between 15 and 25 minutes to cook.

Some recipes suggest cooking the puddings for 10 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for a further 5-10 minutes. This two-step process helps to ensure that the puddings are golden and puffed up on the outside, with a crispy texture, while remaining cooked through on the inside.

Other recipes suggest a slightly longer cooking time of 20 minutes, without flipping the puddings. This method still results in delicious, puffed-up Yorkshire puddings, as demonstrated by @Nannabea on TikTok, who has over 1.5 million followers.

If you are short on time, frozen Yorkshire puddings can be cooked in an air fryer in as little as 3-4 minutes. Simply place the frozen puddings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and cook at 180°C until they are hot and crisp.

Regardless of the recipe you follow, it is important to preheat your air fryer and ensure that the oil or fat you are using is very hot before adding the batter. This will help to ensure that your Yorkshire puddings puff up nicely and have a crispy texture.

Can you freeze and reheat the puddings?

Yes, you can freeze and reheat Yorkshire puddings. This is a great way to save time and effort, especially if you're preparing for a big family dinner. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Freezing Yorkshire Puddings:

• Allow your Yorkshire puddings to cool completely after taking them out of the air fryer.
• Transfer the cooled puddings to a freezer bag or an airtight container. If using a bag, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Make space in your freezer to accommodate the puddings without squashing them.
• Label the bag or container with the date, and store the puddings in the freezer for up to a month.

Reheating Frozen Yorkshire Puddings:

• When ready to serve, preheat your air fryer or oven to 180°C (360°F) or a hot oven of around 390°F.
• Place the frozen puddings directly into the air fryer or oven. There is no need to defrost them first.
• Reheat for approximately 5 minutes for the air fryer, or 3-4 minutes for the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
• Serve immediately with your favourite roast dinner and plenty of gravy!

Tips for Optimal Results:

• For the best texture and taste, some people suggest taking the puddings out of the oven or air fryer slightly before they are fully cooked if you plan to freeze them.
• When reheating, you can spritz the puddings with a light vegetable spray before placing them in the oven to prevent them from drying out.
• If your puddings turn out a bit dry, a generous helping of gravy will do wonders!
• You can also reheat frozen giant Yorkshire puddings and turn them into delicious wraps.

Frequently asked questions