There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cheese puffs wafting through the kitchen. These delightful little gougères are perfect for a cozy evening snack, a party appetizer, or even a fancy brunch. Let’s dive into the simple yet sophisticated world of cheese puffs with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup water
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup plain flour
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon minced Italian parsley
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cheese puffs bake evenly and don’t stick to the tray.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, salt, and ground black pepper to a boil. Once boiling, add the flour and stir vigorously until the mixture forms a dough. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to dry out the dough. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
3. Mix in the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition until fully combined. This will help incorporate air into the dough, making the puffs light and airy.
4. Add Cheese and Herbs
Fold in the grated mozzarella cheese and minced Italian parsley. Mix well to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Shape the Puffs
Using two tablespoons, form round balls of dough and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them 1.5″-2″ (4cm-5cm) apart to allow for expansion during baking. Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top of each puff for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Bake
Bake the cheese puffs in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes. Then, lower the heat to 380°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. The two-step baking process helps them rise perfectly and achieve a crispy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cheese puffs warm for the best experience. They make a wonderful accompaniment to soups and salads or can be enjoyed on their own as a savory treat.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: 300 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of these gougères with friends and family. Happy baking!
Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
These Cheese Puffs, also known as Gougeres, are a sublime blend of gooey mozzarella and sharp parmesan cheese encased in a perfectly crisp puff. The addition of Italian parsley lends a subtle herbaceous note, elevating the flavors to a new level. Ideal for entertaining guests or as a luxurious addition to your snack lineup, these cheese puffs promise a delightful bite that’s both satisfying and impressively elegant.
Ingredients
3/4 cup water
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup plain flour
4 large eggs
3/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon minced Italian parsley
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water, butter, salt, and ground black pepper to a boil. Add the flour and stir until it forms a dough. Cook for another 2 minutes to dry out the dough.
Transfer the dough to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, and stir until well combined.
Add the mozzarella cheese and parsley, mix well. Using 2 tablespoons, round each ball of dough and drop it onto the prepared parchment paper. Set them 1.5″-2″ (4cm-5cm) apart. Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top.
Bake for 10 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then lower the heat to 380°F (190°C) and bake for another 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300