Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 1/4 cups low-fat or whole milk, warmed until lukewarm
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 23 cup grated extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
  • 1 Paprika or smoked paprika for dusting, optional

Method

  • Set oven rack in bottom third of oven, and preheat oven to 500F.
  • Coat 24-cup mini muffin pan well with cooking spray.
  • Whisk eggs in medium bowl 1 minute with hand whisk, or until light yellow and frothy.
  • Whisk in milk until combined.
  • Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, then stir in cheese and chives.
  • Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling almost to rim.
  • Place on bottom rack in oven, reduce oven heat to 450F, and bake 15 minutes.
  • Reduce oven heat once more to 350F, and bake 5 to 10 minutes more, or until popovers are deep golden brown.
  • Immediately unmold popovers to prevent sticking.
  • Dust with paprika (if using).
  • Serve hot or at room temperature.