
Yorkshire puddings recipe for 4
Crisp and golden on the outside, soft and airy inside, Delia Smith’s Yorkshire pudding for four is the ultimate British comfort food. Its savoury aroma and pillowy texture make it the perfect partner for a traditional roast.
10 minutes
25 minutes
Serves 4
Vegetarian option, Nut-free

From Saturday Kitchen
Delia Smith’s Yorkshire pudding for four is low in sugar and can be made vegetarian. It’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal, with protein and vegetables to complement its comforting carbs and moderate fat from oil or dripping.
Ingredients
- 110g plain flour
- 2 large eggs
- 200ml milk (full-fat recommended)
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil or beef dripping for the tin
Method
- Prepare the Batter
- Sift the flour and a pinch of salt into a large bowl.
- Make a well in the centre and crack in the eggs.
- Whisk the eggs into the flour, gradually drawing in the flour from the sides.
- Slowly add the milk while whisking, until you have a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Let the batter rest for 10–15 minutes while you heat the oven.
- Heat the Tin
- Heat the oven to 220°C (fan 200°C) or gas mark 7.
- Add a generous layer of oil or beef dripping to a roasting tin or four individual pudding tins.
- Place the tin in the oven until the fat is shimmering and just starting to smoke.
- Bake the Yorkshire Pudding
- Quickly and carefully pour the batter into the hot fat. The batter should sizzle as it hits the tin.
- Return the tin to the oven, placing it on a high shelf.
- Bake for 20–25 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: For extra crispiness, use beef dripping and make sure the fat is very hot before adding the batter.
Suggested Wine Pairing
- Majestic: Definition Claret –
This classic Bordeaux blend has soft tannins and dark fruit notes, which pair beautifully with Yorkshire pudding and roast beef. - Tesco: Tesco Finest Rioja –
A smooth, spicy red with hints of vanilla and cherry, this Rioja is a great match for Yorkshire pudding and rich gravy. - Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference South African Chenin Blanc –
Crisp and refreshing, this white wine cuts through the richness of the pudding, making it ideal for vegetarian or lighter roasts.
All wines are under £12.50 and complement Yorkshire pudding’s savoury, comforting flavours.
What can you serve with this
- Roast Beef – The traditional partner, as the pudding soaks up the juices and gravy.
- Rich Onion Gravy – Adds depth and savouriness to every bite.
- Roast Chicken – A lighter option that still works beautifully with Yorkshire pudding.
- Vegetable Medley – Roasted carrots, parsnips, and greens balance the richness.
- Sausages and Cabbage – For a hearty twist, fill the pudding with bangers and sautéed cabbage.
FAQs for Yorkshire Pudding for 4
- 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 four scores a Nutri-Score of C. It’s low in sugar and can be vegetarian, 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 nut-free.
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.