Cheese Puffs Recipe

Introduction

Cheese puffs are light, airy, and packed with cheesy flavor—a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. With a crisp exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, these treats are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and cheddar)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or paprika

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan, heat the milk, butter, and salt over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
3. Step 3: Remove from heat and stir in the flour all at once. Mix vigorously until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Step 4: Let the dough cool for 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy.
6. Step 6: Fold in the grated cheese and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika.
7. Step 7: Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese puffs are golden brown and puffed.
9. Step 9: Serve warm or cool on a rack for later use.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, try mixing in herbs like chives or thyme with the cheese.
• Using a sharp cheese like aged cheddar or Gruyère enhances the depth of flavor.
• If you want a spicier puff, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• Make sure to add eggs one at a time to ensure the dough becomes smooth and properly emulsified.

Storage

Store cheese puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them crisp, avoid refrigerating. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore their crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze cheese puffs?

Yes, you can freeze baked cheese puffs. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven from frozen to maintain their texture.

Can I make cheese puffs without eggs?

Eggs are essential for the structure and texture of cheese puffs. Omitting them is not recommended, as the dough won’t rise or puff properly without the eggs.

Cheese Puffs Recipe

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Cheese puffs are light, airy, and cheesy baked snacks made from a dough of milk, butter, flour, eggs, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly golden on the outside with a soft and cheesy interior, these puffs are ideal as appetizers or savory treats for any occasion.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cheese puffs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or paprika

Dairy and Eggs

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese (or mix of Gruyère and cheddar)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Heat Liquids and Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, unsalted butter, and salt. Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer, ensuring the butter is fully melted into the milk.
3. Add Flour: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the all-purpose flour all at once. Mix vigorously until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a smooth ball.
4. Cool Dough: Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes to prevent the eggs from cooking when added.
5. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This process ensures the dough becomes smooth, glossy, and elastic enough to trap air during baking.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Gently fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese along with any optional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
7. Shape Puffs: Using a tablespoon, drop portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart to allow room for puffing.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
9. Serve: Serve the cheese puffs warm for the best texture, or cool them on a rack if preparing ahead.

Notes

• For a stronger cheese flavor, use a mix of Gruyère and sharp cheddar.
• Make sure to beat in the eggs thoroughly to help achieve the perfect puff.
• Do not open the oven during baking to prevent the puffs from collapsing.
• Cheese puffs are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in a warm oven before serving.
• Experiment with herbs or spices like paprika or garlic powder to add more flavor complexity.

Keywords: Cheese puffs, savory snacks, baked cheese treats, gougères, appetizer recipe