My first attempt at Yorkshire pudding in an air fryer.

Directions:

1. Make the Batter:
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper (if using). Beat the batter until it’s smooth and lump-free. The batter should be thin and pourable, similar to pancake batter.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, grease the air fryer basket or silicone muffin cups with a little oil. This will help the Yorkshire puddings come out easily and ensure they get that perfect crisp on the outside.
3. Fill the Muffin Cups:
   Pour the Yorkshire pudding batter into the air fryer-safe silicone muffin cups, filling each cup about halfway. If you don’t have silicone cups, you can also use a well-oiled metal or oven-safe baking dish that fits into your air fryer basket. Just make sure to not overfill, as the puddings will rise quite a bit during cooking.
4. Cook the Puddings:
   Place the filled muffin cups or baking dish into the preheated air fryer. Air fry the Yorkshire puddings at 390°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them toward the end, as they will puff up and become golden brown. Do not open the air fryer door during the cooking process, as the puddings need that constant hot air to rise properly.
5. Check for Doneness:
   After 10-12 minutes, the Yorkshire puddings should be golden brown and puffed up. If you’re unsure, gently tap the sides—they should be crispy and sound hollow. If they’re not quite there, continue to air fry for another 2-3 minutes until fully crisped.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Carefully remove the Yorkshire puddings from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed immediately while they’re still hot and crispy, ideally served with a rich gravy and your favorite roast dinner.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Yorkshire Pudding:

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing the batter can result in tough puddings. Whisk just until combined, and don’t worry if there are a few small lumps.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter come together more smoothly and ensures a better rise.
• Keep the Air Fryer Closed: Don’t open the air fryer door while cooking the Yorkshire puddings, as the sudden temperature change can cause them to collapse. Let them puff up undisturbed!
• Adjust for Size: If you’re using a larger air fryer or larger muffin cups, you may need to cook the puddings for a few extra minutes. Just keep an eye on them, and adjust the time as necessary.
• Make Them Smaller for a Party: If you’re serving a crowd, try making mini Yorkshire puddings in a mini muffin tray or silicone molds. They’ll cook more quickly and make perfect individual servings.

What Went Right on My First Attempt:

Honestly, I was a little skeptical going into it, but my first attempt at Yorkshire puddings in the air fryer turned out amazing. The batter puffed up beautifully, and the edges crisped up perfectly, giving the puddings that golden crunch that’s so essential to a good Yorkshire. The inside remained soft and airy, making them a perfect match for gravy and roasted meats. I was surprised at how little time it took compared to traditional oven-baked Yorkshire puddings, and the cleanup was a breeze!

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Underfilling the Cups: If you don’t fill the muffin cups enough, the puddings might not rise as much. On the flip side, overfilling can cause them to overflow. Half-full is the perfect balance.
• Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure that the batter cooks evenly and puffs up as it should. This helps achieve that signature rise and crispiness.
• Not Greasing the Cups: Be sure to grease your muffin cups well, especially if you’re using a metal tray. This ensures that the Yorkshire puddings don’t stick and come out in perfect shape.

Serving Suggestions:

• Traditional Roast Dinner: Yorkshire puddings are best served as a side to a classic Sunday roast with beef, lamb, or chicken, accompanied by roasted vegetables and a rich gravy.
• With Soup: Serve Yorkshire puddings alongside a hearty bowl of soup, like a rich beef stew or vegetable soup, for a comforting meal.
• As a Snack: They’re great on their own as a snack, especially if you dip them into your favorite sauces or gravies.
• With a Twist: For something different, try stuffing Yorkshire puddings with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a savory stuffing mixture for an impressive appetizer.

Conclusion:

Making Yorkshire pudding in the air fryer was a game-changer for me. Not only was it quicker and less messy than the traditional oven method, but the results were just as good—crispy, golden, and delicious. Whether you’re a Yorkshire pudding pro or this is your first attempt, the air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve perfect results every time. So, if you’re looking for a simple way to impress your friends or family with a classic British dish, give air fryer Yorkshire puddings a try—you won’t be disappointed!