Light, Airy, and Irresistibly Sweet

Cavacas, also known as Portuguese Popovers, are a beloved pastry found at countless Portuguese family tables, especially during holidays and festive gatherings. These airy delights puff beautifully in the oven, developing a golden crust with a custardy interior. Traditionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a citrus glaze, cavacas strike the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence.

Unlike traditional popovers that lean more savory, cavacas are subtly sweet and incredibly versatile. They’re quick to whip up, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an elegant addition to a brunch spread. Whether you’re steeped in Portuguese tradition or just discovering these charming pastries, cavacas are sure to win you over.

Cavacas (Portuguese Popovers)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light and fluffy with a slightly crisp exterior
Easy to make with pantry staples
Bakes up beautifully in a muffin tin — no special pans needed
Can be served sweet or even slightly savory
Ideal for gatherings, brunches, or weekday treats

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing the muffin tin)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a muffin tin with melted butter to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and eggs until frothy and well combined.
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cavacas are puffed and golden brown.
Let them cool slightly in the tin, then remove and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best texture.

Variations

Citrus glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice or orange juice and drizzle over cooled cavacas.
Chocolate drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle for a dessert-worthy finish.
Vanilla or almond extract: Add a teaspoon to the batter for extra flavor depth.
Savory option: Skip the sugar, add shredded cheese and herbs for a savory twist.

Storage and Reheating

Store: Keep cooled cavacas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat: Warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–6 minutes to refresh their texture.
Freeze: Cavacas can be frozen and reheated, though they’re best fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the texture of cavacas like?

They’re light, airy, and slightly chewy inside with a crisp exterior — very similar to popovers or pâte à choux puffs.

Do I need a popover pan?

Not at all! A standard muffin tin works perfectly for cavacas.

Can I use low-fat or plant-based milk?

Whole milk gives the best texture, but you can substitute with oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. Low-fat milk works, though the cavacas may be slightly less rich.

Why didn’t my cavacas puff up?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated and avoid opening the oven door while baking. Also, don’t overmix the batter.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can whisk the wet and dry ingredients separately ahead of time and combine right before baking.

Are cavacas the same as popovers?

They’re similar in technique and texture, but cavacas are usually sweeter and more dessert-friendly than classic popovers.

How do I know when they’re done?

They’ll be puffed, golden brown, and should pull away slightly from the edges of the muffin tin.

Can I add fillings or toppings?

Yes! Cavacas are neutral enough to pair with jams, honey, whipped cream, or sweet spreads.

Do I need to sift the flour?

It’s not necessary, but sifting can make the batter lighter if you want an extra fluffy result.

Are cavacas traditional in Portuguese cuisine?

Yes, especially during Easter and Christmas in many Portuguese families. Some regions even have their own variations.

Conclusion

Cavacas are proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something truly delightful. These sweet little Portuguese popovers are light, golden, and deeply satisfying — the perfect treat for when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether dusted with sugar, glazed with citrus, or enjoyed plain, cavacas are a recipe worth bookmarking forever.