Garlic Parmesan Popovers

Instructions

1. Prepare the oven and pan
   Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Generously grease a 6-cup popover pan or muffin tin with butter, making sure to coat the sides and rims well. Place the pan in the oven to heat for 5 minutes.
2. Mix the wet ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until light and foamy. Add the warm milk and melted butter, whisking until well combined.
3. Add the dry ingredients
   Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, whisking continuously until the batter is smooth with no lumps. Don't overmix - the batter should be the consistency of heavy cream.
4. Incorporate the flavors
   Fold in 1/3 cup of the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Stir gently until just combined, leaving a few small lumps for texture.
5. Fill the pan
   Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven. Quickly fill each cup about 3/4 full with batter. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the tops.
6. Bake to perfection
   Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Do not open the oven door during baking as this can cause the popovers to collapse.
7. Finish and serve
   Remove from the oven and immediately poke each popover with a small knife to release steam. Sprinkle with fresh chives and serve hot for the best texture and flavor.