Delight your guests with Cheese Puffs, also known as Gougeres, a light and airy Puff Recipe featuring sharp cheddar and fresh thyme. These golden, melt-in-your-mouth bites are perfect as appetizers or alongside soups, making them a versatile addition to summer parties and gatherings. Easy to prepare with a choux dough base, this Cheese Puffs Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Try these Turtle Cake Ideas for a savory twist on summer entertaining, your Independence Day Party!
Why You’ll Love These Cheese Puffs
This Cheese Puffs Recipe is a must-have for summer entertaining and cozy meals alike. Here’s why you’ll adore these Gougeres:
- Light and Airy: Crisp on the outside, soft and cheesy inside for a perfect texture.
- Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, ideal for spontaneous gatherings.
- Versatile: Serve as appetizers, soup sides, or party snacks for summer party.
- Flavorful: Sharp cheddar and thyme create a savory, irresistible Puff Recipe.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and bake from frozen for easy hosting.
Ingredients for Cheese Puffs
To make this Cheese Puffs Recipe (makes about 24 puffs), gather these ingredients:
For the Puffs:
- ½ cup unsalted butterDessert, a
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
Ingredient Tips:
- Cheddar: Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar (like Cabot’s Seriously Sharp) for better melting in this Recipe.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme adds aromatic depth; dried thyme works at half the amount for this Puff Recipe.
- Eggs: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smooth choux dough.
- Flour: Measure accurately to avoid a dense texture in these Cheese Puffs.
- Butter: Unsalted butter allows better control of saltiness in this Puff Recipe.
How to Make Cheese Puffs
Follow these steps to create Cheese Puffs:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cook the Dough: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup butter, ½ cup water, ½ cup milk, and ½ tsp kosher salt. Bring to a rapid boil. Add 1 cup flour all at once, stirring vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the pan’s sides.
- Cool and Mix: Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on low for 3-4 minutes to cool slightly. Add 4 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each until smooth. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes more.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar, 2 tsp chopped thyme, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp black pepper until evenly combined.
- Shape and Top: Using a large spoon or small cookie scoop, drop mounds of dough (about 1 tbsp each) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between puffs. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top of each mound.
- Bake: Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, then reduce to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes more, until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm for the best Cheese Puffs experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Calories: ~80 per puff (based on 24 puffs)
Servings: About 24 puffs
Macros per Puff: 5g carbs, 3g protein, 6g fat, 0g fiber
Tips for Perfect Cheese Puffs
- Cool Dough Slightly: Let the dough cool before adding eggs to avoid curdling in this Puff Recipe.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded for Cheese Puffs.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake until golden for a crisp exterior in this Recipe.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy right out of the oven for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Creative Variations to Try
Customize this Cheese Puffs Recipe with these ideas:
- Cheese Swap: Try Gruyere or Swiss for a nutty flavor in this Puff Recipe.
- Herb Twist: Swap thyme for rosemary or chives for a fresh take on Cheese Puffs.
- Mixed Cheeses: Combine cheddar and Parmesan for a complex Recipe.
- Bacon Bits: Stir in crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory Puff Recipe.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
These Cheese Puffs are a versatile Summer Dessert alternative that shines at any event. Try these serving suggestions:
- Serve warm on a platter as a chic appetizer with wine or beer for summer gatherings.
- Pair with a creamy tomato soup or chowder for a comforting meal.
- Present in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for a rustic Puff Recipe display.
- Offer at picnics or barbecues alongside fresh veggies for a balanced spread.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm at 250°F in an oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness in this Recipe.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked puffs on a tray, then transfer to a bag; bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes.
- Best Fresh: Enjoy within a day or two for optimal flavor in this Puff Recipe.
FAQs About Cheese Puffs
Can I use pre-shredded cheese in Cheese Puffs Recipe?
Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works in a pinch for this Puff Recipe.
How long do Summer Desserts like Cheese Puffs last?
They stay fresh in the fridge for 3 days or freeze unbaked for up to 1 month.
Can I make Puff Recipe without thyme?
Yes, omit thyme or use parsley for a milder flavor in this Recipe.
What pairs well with Cheese Puffs Recipe?
Serve with soup, salads, or as a party appetizer with drinks for a complete meal.
Can I bake Puff Recipe from frozen?
Yes, bake frozen puffs at 425°F for 10 minutes, then 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
More Summer Party Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Deviled Eggs – The Ultimate Easter Appetizer
- Caprese Skewers – A Simple Appetizer Everyone Will Love
- Jalapeno Bacon Wrapped – The Ultimate Appetizer
Conclusion
These Cheese Puffs are a light, savory Puff Recipe that’s perfect for summer entertaining or cozy meals. With their golden crunch and cheesy interior, they’re a highlight among Summer Desserts. Bake this Cheese Puffs Recipe today and enjoy a French-inspired treat that’s sure to impress!
Cheddar Cheese Puffs
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese plus extra for sprinkling
- 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cook the Dough: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ½ cup butter, ½ cup water, ½ cup milk, and ½ tsp kosher salt. Bring to a rapid boil. Add 1 cup flour all at once, stirring vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the pan’s sides.
- Cool and Mix: Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on low for 3-4 minutes to cool slightly. Add 4 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each until smooth. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes more.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar, 2 tsp chopped thyme, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp black pepper until evenly combined.
- Shape and Top: Using a large spoon or small cookie scoop, drop mounds of dough (about 1 tbsp each) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between puffs. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar on top of each mound.
- Bake: Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, then reduce to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes more, until golden brown and puffed. Serve warm for the best Cheese Puffs experience.
Notes
- Cool Dough Slightly: Let the dough cool before adding eggs to avoid curdling in this Puff Recipe.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded for Cheese Puffs.
- Space Puffs Evenly: Leave room for expansion to ensure airy Summer Desserts.
- Watch Baking Time: Bake until golden for a crisp exterior in this Cheese Puffs Recipe.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy right out of the oven for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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