Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings – Perfectly Crispy, Light, and Foolproof
Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings Made from Scratch
We bring you the ultimate Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings recipe, designed to deliver exceptional rise, crisp edges, and a light-as-air center every single time. Prepared entirely in an air fryer, these puddings rival traditional oven-baked versions while using less energy, less time, and consistently reliable results. Perfectly suited for a classic Sunday roast, they pair beautifully with roast beef, gravy, and seasonal vegetables.
This method focuses on precision, heat control, and batter science, ensuring a flawless outcome whether cooking for a small family meal or a full roast dinner spread.
Why Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings Work So Well
The air fryer creates an environment of intense, circulating heat, which is exactly what Yorkshire puddings require to rise dramatically. The rapid heat transfer causes the batter to steam internally, pushing it upward while the exterior crisps instantly in hot fat.
Key advantages include:
- Faster cooking time
- Even browning
- Superior crispness
- No soggy bottoms
- Consistent rise
Using an air fryer eliminates common issues such as uneven oven temperatures or underheated oil.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Yorkshire Puddings
Precision ingredients are crucial for traditional texture and flavor. We rely on simple pantry staples, balanced carefully for optimal structure.
For the Batter
- 130 g (1 cup) plain / all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 240 ml (1 cup) semi-skimmed milk
For Cooking
- 3 tablespoons vegetable cooking fat (such as Trex) or sunflower oil, as needed
Each ingredient plays a functional role:
- Flour provides structure
- Eggs create lift and richness
- Milk ensures tenderness
- Hot fat delivers crispness and rise
Preparing the Yorkshire Pudding Batter
Smooth, Rested Batter for Maximum Rise
We begin by measuring the flour into a mixing bowl and stirring in the salt. The eggs are added next, followed by a small splash of milk. Using a balloon whisk, the mixture is whisked until thick and smooth.
The remaining milk is added gradually, ensuring a lump-free, pourable batter. The batter must then be rested for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and the starches to hydrate fully, resulting in lighter puddings with better structure.
Alternative method: Using an immersion blender, all ingredients can be blitzed together in a tall jug until perfectly smooth.
Preheating the Air Fryer for Success
Hot Fat Is Non-Negotiable
A properly preheated air fryer is the foundation of successful Yorkshire puddings. A silicone muffin tin, ramekins, or small cake tins are placed directly into the air fryer basket. Half a teaspoon of vegetable fat or sunflower oil is added to each compartment.
The air fryer is then preheated to 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes. The oil must be shimmering hot before the batter is added. This instant heat contact is what creates the dramatic puff.
Cooking Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings
Perfect Timing and Technique
Before pouring, the batter is stirred thoroughly. Working quickly, the batter is poured into each hot tin, filling just under halfway. Overfilling prevents proper rise.
The puddings are air fried at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes. At this stage, they will appear golden and puffed, though the underside may still be soft.
Using tongs, the puddings are carefully flipped and returned to the air fryer:
- 5 minutes for small puddings
- Up to 10 minutes for larger puddings
The final result should be deeply golden, feather-light, and crisp on all sides. If any feel heavy, they are returned to the fryer for an additional minute or two.
Serving Suggestions for a Classic Roast
Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings are best served immediately, while fully puffed and crisp. They are the ideal companion to:
- Air Fryer Roast Beef
- Rich onion gravy
- Roast potatoes
- Seasonal vegetables
Their neutral flavor also makes them excellent for vegetarian roasts or creative fillings such as mushrooms, onion gravy, or roasted vegetables.
Storing and Reheating Yorkshire Puddings
Short-Term Storage
Leftover puddings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. While they naturally lose crispness, reheating restores them effortlessly.
To reheat:
- Air fry at 160°C (320°F) for 3 minutes
They emerge hot, crisp, and ready to serve.
Freezing Yorkshire Puddings for Later
Yorkshire puddings freeze exceptionally well, making them ideal for batch cooking.
Freezing method:
- Allow puddings to cool completely
- Spread on a tray and freeze until solid
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container
Reheating from frozen:
- Air fry at 180°C (360°F) for 5 minutes
No thawing required. The puddings regain their structure, crispness, and height perfectly.
Expert Tips for Guaranteed Success
- Always preheat the oil, not just the air fryer
- Resting the batter improves rise and texture
- Use neutral, high-smoke-point fats
- Avoid opening the air fryer too early
- Flip halfway for even crispness
Consistency in temperature and timing ensures professional-quality results every time.
Nutritional Information (Per Pudding)
- Calories: 98 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Sodium: 121 mg
- Calcium: 33 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
These puddings deliver classic flavor with balanced nutrition, making them a practical addition to any roast dinner.
Conclusion: The Best Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings
This method delivers authentic Yorkshire puddings with unmatched reliability. Using straightforward ingredients and a carefully controlled air fryer technique, we achieve maximum rise, crisp texture, and rich flavor every time. Whether prepared fresh, reheated, or cooked from frozen, these puddings perform flawlessly and elevate any meal they accompany.