Cheddar Cheese Puffs
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
20 people
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Calories
115 kcal
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Course
Dessert
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Cuisine
International
Cheddar Cheese Puffs
Description
This recipe starts by boiling butter, milk, water, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper before adding flour to form a thick dough. After cooking, the dough is transferred to a mixer where eggs are incorporated one at a time to create a smooth batter. Sharp cheddar cheese and scallions are folded in, contributing cheese flavor and mild onion freshness. Baking begins at a high temperature to puff the dough, then continues at a lower heat to dry and brown the puffs thoroughly.
The result is a golden, hollow puff with a crispy exterior and a light, moist crumb inside that holds the cheddar and scallion flavors distinctly. The addition of cayenne provides a very mild heat, improving overall complexity without overpowering the cheese. These puffs are suitable served warm for bite-sized snacks or party appetizers.
For variation, if unsalted butter is used, add salt to the dough to balance flavors and enhance overall taste. These puffs should be served shortly after baking to maintain their crispness.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter 1 stick, salted
- 1/2 cup milk whole
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 egg large
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese grated, sharp
- 2 talks scallions cut into small rounds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter, milk, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and water. When the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the flour. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a ball and dries out slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
- Transfer the flour mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer and beat it with the paddle attachment for 1 minute. Add the eggs one at a time, beating until fully incorporated before adding the next. Once all the eggs are incorporated, stir in the cheese and scallions, mixing well.
- Drop the batter by a scant tablespoonful onto the baking sheets, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) between them. Bake for 7 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C) and continue baking until the gougères are golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes. Immediately after removing from the oven, poke each puff once with a toothpick, sharp chopstick, or skewer to allow steam to escape. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use 1/2 teaspoon salt if using unsalted butter to ensure balanced seasoning of the dough.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 20people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 115 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 20people | |
| Calories | 115kcal | 6% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 9g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5g | 3% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 54mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 110mg | 5% |
| Potassium | 40mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 0.2g | 1% |
| Sugar | 0.4g | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 301IU | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 0.2mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 76mg | 8% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.