6 Steps for Cheese Puffs

I discovered this recipe on a food magazine website called Saveur and just knew I had to try and make it myself!

Gougères are French cheesey choux pastry delights, like cheese puffs. As soon as I opened the oven door, the amazing smell of the toasted Gruyère cheese was heavenly. I especially loved the crisp outer shell which contrasted the soft texture inside. These taste amazing when served freshly baked from the oven. I took them into work to share with my colleagues and it was a winner! My only disappointment was that it lost that crispness and crunch overnight, but it still tasted wonderful.

Next time I’m definitely going to try different flavours by adding some herbs. It’s so simple to make and the ingredients are easily accessible to everyone. The hardest part was grating the thin block of Gruyère cheese and washing the mixture off the beaters of my electric whisk – that’s all!

Cheese Puffs

Cheese Puffs Recipe: How to Make It

Cheese Puffs

Prep Time 22 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 354 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 oven 

Ingredients
  

  • 120 ml milk ½ cup
  • 120 ml water ½ cup
  • 120 g unsalted butter melted
  • ½ tsp. salt I used fleur de sel
  • 128 g flour 1 cup
  • 4 eggs at room temperature
  • Approx. 190g Gruyère cheese grated

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oven to 220°. Bring the milk, water, butter & salt to a boil in a saucepan over high heat.
  • Add the flour and stir with a wooden spoon until it turns into a dough and reduce the heat to medium. Stir the dough constantly for about 2-3 minutes then transfer to a bowl.
  • Beat in 1 egg with a hand mixer and then repeat with the remaining eggs, one at a time, until the dough is smooth.
  • Stir in the cheese. I did this in two parts to make sure the cheese was fully incorporated throughout the mixture.
  • Use a tablespoon to drop balls of dough onto a lined baking tray. Try and make them as round of possible as they’ll be aesthetically pleasing.
  • Reduce the oven temperature to 180°. Bake for about 20-30 minutes depending on how good your oven is, until golden brown. I would recommend turning the tray around quickly and carefully half-way through baking to give them an even colour.

Video

Keyword Gruyère cheese, milk

How to make Cheese Puffs using microwave

Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) | Tasty appetizer idea!

Creating Cheese Puffs in the microwave is a delightful little culinary adventure, perfect for when the craving for something cheesy and comforting hits, but time is not on your side. This method feels like a cozy shortcut to snack heaven, where with just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes, you can conjure up a warm, airy treat that satisfies the soul.

Begin with a simple mixture of cheese, egg, and a touch of flour to bind everything together. Season this blend to your liking, perhaps with a whisper of paprika or garlic powder for an extra hint of flavor. Spoon small dollops onto a microwave-safe plate lined with parchment paper, giving them space to puff up without touching.

Microwave them in short intervals, watching as they swell into golden pillows of joy. The result is a snack that’s irresistibly light yet indulgently cheesy, and all done in less time than it takes to preheat an oven. It’s a celebration of convenience and the sheer pleasure of creating something so delightful from such humble beginnings.

Tips for making Cheese Puffs

Gougères (French Cheese Puffs) - Once Upon a Chef

Cooking Tips

Crafting Cheese Puffs is a joyful endeavor, a playful foray into the world of savory pastries that promises delight in every airy, cheese-filled bite. Here are five heartfelt tips to elevate your Cheese Puffs:

  • Choose a good quality cheese with a bold flavor, like sharp cheddar or Gruyère, to infuse your puffs with a depth of taste that sings through the fluffiness.
  • For an even rise, ensure your oven is properly preheated; these puffs crave consistent heat to soar to their full potential.
  • When adding the cheese to your dough, do so with a gentle hand to maintain the delicate structure that will give your puffs their signature lift.
  • A pinch of mustard powder or cayenne can whisper subtle warmth into the dough, enhancing the cheese without overpowering the palate.
  • Finally, savor the process as much as the product; the act of baking Cheese Puffs is a dance of precision and patience, culminating in the pride of sharing your golden creations with others.

Serving suggestion

Gougères (French cheese puffs) - Caroline's Cooking

Serving Cheese Puffs is akin to sharing little clouds of happiness. Each puff, with its golden exterior and molten cheesy center, is a testament to the joy that simple pleasures can bring. I find it heartwarming to watch guests’ eyes light up as they reach for these bite-sized delights, often followed by a contented sigh as they savor the warm, comforting flavors.

Presenting them on a rustic wooden board or a sleek platter adds to the charm, inviting people to gather around and indulge. Pairing Cheese Puffs with a tangy dip or a selection of fruit preserves can elevate the experience, offering a delightful contrast to the rich cheese.

The act of serving these puffs feels like an extension of hospitality, a way to say, “You’re welcome here.” It’s a gesture that turns a simple snack into a moment of connection, a shared experience that’s as nourishing for the spirit as it is for the appetite.

Top 4 FAQs about Cheese Puffs

  • What type of cheese works best for making Cheese Puffs?

    The choice of cheese can greatly influence the flavor of the puffs. Strong, hard cheeses like Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or Parmesan are often recommended for their robust flavor profiles that can stand up to baking. These cheeses also melt well, contributing to the desirable texture of the puffs.

  • How do you achieve the perfect puff in Cheese Puffs?

    The key to achieving a good rise is to ensure that the choux pastry dough is made correctly. The dough should be cooked until it forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides of the pan. Eggs are then beaten in one at a time to create an elastic dough that holds its shape. Baking at a high temperature initially helps the puffs to rise quickly, creating their characteristic hollow interior.

  • Can Cheese Puffs be made in advance, and how should they be stored?

    Cheese Puffs can be made ahead of time and stored once cooled. They should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature if they will be eaten within a day. For longer storage, they can be frozen and then re-crisped in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving.

  • What are some common issues when making Cheese Puffs and how can they be avoided?

    Common issues include puffs that are soggy, collapse after baking, or don’t rise properly. To avoid these problems, make sure the dough is dry enough before adding the eggs, bake the puffs until they are golden

Cheese puffs are a popular and enjoyable snack known for their light and airy texture, combined with a delicious cheese flavor. These snacks are typically made from a mixture of cornmeal, cheese powder, and other seasonings, which are then shaped and baked or fried to achieve their distinctive puffiness.

In conclusion, cheese puffs offer a satisfying and convenient snack option for those craving a savory and cheesy treat. While they may not be the healthiest choice due to their often high fat and sodium content, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The variety of flavors and brands available in the market allows consumers to find cheese puffs that suit their taste preferences. Whether enjoyed during movie nights, parties, or as a quick snack, cheese puffs continue to be a popular and enduring snack choice for many.

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