Cheese Puffs
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
or water
- 1 stick butter )
unsalted (1/2 cup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
optional
- 1 cup flour
- 4 large eggs
room temperature
- 1 cup Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar
finely shredded
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425°F.
- 2
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 3
In a medium saucepan, combine milk, butter, salt and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- 4
Turn heat to low and add all of the flour at once. Stir until very smooth. Continue cooking and stirring until it forms a dough that doesn't stick to the sides/bottom of the pot and is no longer sticky, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes.
- 5
While the flour mixture is cooling, completely whisk eggs in a separate bowl. Remove 2 tablespoons of the eggs for an egg wash and set aside.
- 6
Add the egg mixture to the dough a little bit at a time, stirring with a spoon after each addition. Once the eggs are completely incorporated, stir in the shredded cheese.
- 7
Place the mixture into a freezer bag or a piping bag and pipe into 1" circles (about 3/4" high) on the prepared baking sheet. With wet fingers, smooth the top of the mounds.
- 8
Whisk the reserved egg with 1 teaspoon water and brush over the puffs. Sprinkle with additional cheddar if desired.
- 9
Bake for 10 minutes at 425°F and then lower the temperature to 350°F and cook for 18-19 minutes or until they are puffed and browned.
Cheese Puffs
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Based on 85 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving a warm, cheesy bite that's both elegant and utterly satisfying? These classic Cheese Puffs deliver that delightful experience, perfect for any occasion where you desire a light, savory treat.
This recipe excels by combining a rich choux pastry base—made with simple ingredients like milk, butter, and flour—with the robust flavor of Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar. The careful balance of these ingredients, along with room temperature eggs, ensures a light, airy texture that truly melts in your mouth. The optional touch of cayenne pepper adds a subtle warmth, elevating the savory profile without overpowering the cheese.
Expect a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a wonderfully tender, almost hollow interior, bursting with sharp cheddar taste. Each bite is a savory dream, light enough to enjoy several, yet rich enough to feel indulgent. They are an irresistible combination of crispness and chewiness, leaving you wanting more.
While Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar is the star here, you can certainly experiment with other hard, flavorful cheeses like Gruyère or aged Parmesan to explore different flavor profiles. For an aromatic twist, consider stirring in a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or a touch of smoked paprika into the dough. Remember, the ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper is completely optional; omit it for a milder puff, or increase it slightly for a bolder kick.
These versatile Cheese Puffs are excellent as an elegant appetizer for a gathering, a sophisticated snack, or a delightful accompaniment to a bowl of warm soup or a crisp salad. Serve them fresh for the best experience.