Cheese Puffs: The Ultimate Light and Airy Recipe!
These light and airy cheese puffs, also known as Gougères, are made from a savory choux pastry blended with melted cheese and spices for the perfect gourmet snack.
- Author: info.mealsmell
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 24 puffs 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt; bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Remove pan from heat, add flour all at once, and stir vigorously until a smooth ball forms and pulls away from the sides.
- Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
- Stir in the grated cheese, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Do not open the oven door during baking.
- Cool slightly on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to serve.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
- For a sharper flavor, use an aged sharp white cheddar.
- Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking to prevent the puffs from collapsing.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to regain crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 puff
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 145mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Cheese Puffs, Gougères, Choux Pastry, Savory Snacks, Cheesy Appetizer