
Yorkshire pudding for 6
Yorkshire pudding for 6 – recipe by Delia Smith – makes crisp, golden, and perfectly risen Yorkshire puddings for 6 six people as a classic centrepiece for Sunday roasts. Their airy texture and rich flavour are made to soak up lashings of gravy and bring everyone to the table.
10 minutes
40 minutes
Serves 6
Vegetarian option, Nut-free
By Delia SmithFrom Saturday Kitchen
Original recipe from BBC Saturday Kitchen Live.

Delia Smith’s Yorkshire pudding for six is low in sugar, nut-free, and can be made vegetarian. It’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal, with protein and vegetables to round out its comforting carbs and moderate fat from oil or dripping.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 175g plain flour
- 2 free-range eggs
- 175ml milk (whole or semi-skimmed)
- 110ml water
- 2 tbsp beef dripping or vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly milled black pepper, to season
Method
- Make the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) or gas mark 7.
- Place a sieve over a large mixing bowl and sift in the flour, holding the sieve high to aerate the flour.
- Add a generous pinch of salt and some black pepper.
- Make a well in the centre and crack in the eggs.
- Start whisking the eggs, gradually drawing in the flour from the sides.
- Mix the milk and water in a jug, then slowly add to the batter, whisking continuously until smooth and lump-free.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl and whisk again so the batter is completely smooth. The batter can be used straight away—resting is not essential.
- Heat the Tin and Fat
- Spoon the beef dripping or oil into a large roasting tin or individual pudding tins.
- Place the tin in the oven to heat until the fat is shimmering and just starting to smoke.
- For extra crispiness, place the tin over direct heat for a minute so the fat is really hot.
- Bake the Yorkshire Pudding
- Quickly pour the batter into the hot fat, tipping the tin to spread it evenly. The batter should sizzle as it hits the fat.
- Place the tin on a high shelf in the oven and bake for 40 minutes without opening the oven door, until the pudding is well-risen, golden, and crisp.
- Serve immediately, cut into generous squares or left whole if using individual tins.
Tip: Always use plain flour and a very hot oven for the best rise. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable oil instead of beef dripping.
Suggested Wine Pairing
- Majestic: Beefsteak Club Malbec –
This juicy, medium-bodied Malbec has dark berry fruit and gentle spice, making it a great match for Yorkshire pudding with roast beef and gravy. - Tesco: Tesco Finest Côtes du Rhône Villages –
Soft red fruit and subtle peppery notes complement the savoury, crisp Yorkshire pudding, especially when served with roasted meats. - Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference South African Chenin Blanc –
Crisp and refreshing, this white wine balances the richness of the pudding and is lovely with vegetarian roasts or lighter sides.
All wines are under £12.50 and pair beautifully with Yorkshire pudding, whether served with beef, chicken, or a vegetarian main.
What can you serve with this
- Roast Beef – The classic companion, as the pudding soaks up the meat juices and gravy.
- Rich Onion Gravy – Adds depth and savouriness to every bite.
- Roast Chicken – A lighter option that still pairs beautifully with Yorkshire pudding.
- Roasted Root Vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes provide a sweet and earthy contrast.
- Sausages and Cabbage – For a hearty twist, fill the pudding with bangers and sautéed cabbage.
FAQs for Yorkshire Pudding for 6
- Why doesn’t my Yorkshire pudding rise? – The fat must be very hot and the oven door kept closed during baking.
- Can I make the batter in advance? – Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge.
- Can I use oil instead of beef dripping? – Yes, vegetable oil works well and makes it vegetarian-friendly.
- Can I freeze Yorkshire pudding? – Absolutely. Cool completely, freeze, and reheat in a hot oven until crisp.
- What flour is best? – Plain flour is ideal for the classic texture.
- How do I get the pudding extra crispy? – Use very hot fat and don’t open the oven door while baking.
- Can I use a muffin tin? – Yes, for individual Yorkshire puddings, a muffin tin works perfectly.
- Is resting the batter necessary? – It helps, but isn’t essential for a good rise.
- Can I make it dairy-free? – Use a plant-based milk alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Why does my pudding sink? – Opening the oven door too early can cause it to collapse.
Nutri-score Health Check
This Yorkshire pudding for six scores a Nutri-Score of C. It’s low in sugar and nut-free, but contains refined flour and moderate fat from oil or dripping.
Positive Factors
- Eggs and milk provide protein and nutrients.
- Low in sugar and can be made vegetarian.
Negative Factors
- White flour is low in fibre and micronutrients.
- Oil or beef dripping increases the fat content.
Nutri-Score calculated from the recipe ingredients and is only a guide.