Cheddar Cheese Puffs
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!
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.