Name: Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 57 grams Salted Butter ((room temperature)); 114 grams Water; 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar ((13 grams)); ½ teaspoon Sea Salt; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour ((120 grams)); 4 eggs Large Eggs ((room temperature, 200 grams)); 1 cup Finely Grated Cheddar Cheese ((room temperature, 113 grams)); ½ cup Finely Grated Gruyère Cheese ((room temperature, 57 grams)); 1 large egg Additional Egg Wash ((50 grams + 14 grams water)); ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese ((57 grams))

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Cheese puffs, known as gougères in French cuisine, are a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering or simply satisfy your cheese cravings. These airy, cheesy bites are made from a light choux pastry, which creates a wonderful texture that is crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for entertaining or as a snack, gougères are incredibly versatile. They can be served warm or at room temperature and are sure to impress your guests with their elegance and flavor.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe for cheese puffs (gougères) has been meticulously crafted to ensure consistent results every time. The balance of ingredients is designed to create a perfect rise, a golden exterior, and a cheesy, flavorful interior. By following these steps closely, you’ll be rewarded with light and airy puffs that will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Plus, the combination of cheddar and gruyère cheeses gives them a rich, complex flavor that is simply irresistible.

Ingredient Notes

Salted Butter (57 grams, room temperature): Adds richness and flavor. Room temperature butter helps achieve a smoother dough.
Water (114 grams): The base of the choux pastry, providing moisture that steams during baking to create the puffs’ structure.
Granulated Sugar (1 tablespoon or 13 grams): A touch of sweetness balances the savory flavors of the cheese.
Sea Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the cheese puffs.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup or 120 grams): The main structure of the gougères, allowing them to rise and hold their shape.
Large Eggs (4 eggs or 200 grams, room temperature): Essential for providing richness and moisture, as well as helping the dough rise.
Finely Grated Cheddar Cheese (1 cup or 113 grams, room temperature): Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and richness.
Finely Grated Gruyère Cheese (½ cup or 57 grams, room temperature): Offers a nutty and creamy flavor, complementing the cheddar beautifully.
Additional Egg Wash (1 large egg or 50 grams + 1 tablespoon water or 14 grams): Creates a shiny, golden exterior when brushed on before baking.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup or 57 grams): Topped on the gougères for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crust.

Equipment at a Glance

Medium Saucepan: For heating water and butter to make the dough.
Wooden Spoon or Rubber Spatula: For stirring the dough and incorporating the eggs.
Mixing Bowl: To mix in the cheeses and combine the ingredients.
Piping Bag or Ziploc Bag: For piping the dough onto the baking sheet.
Baking Sheet: To bake the cheese puffs, lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
Oven: Preheated for baking the gougères to perfection.

Step-by-Step: Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the room temperature salted butter, water, granulated sugar, and sea salt. Stir occasionally until the butter has melted completely and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the all-purpose flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy. Once all the eggs are incorporated, fold in the finely grated cheddar and gruyère cheeses until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Pipe the Dough

Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe small mounds (about 1 inch in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Top with Cheese

In a small bowl, whisk together the additional egg and water. Brush the tops of the piped dough with the egg wash, then sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of each mound.

Step 7: Bake the Cheese Puffs

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the gougères are puffed up and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking, as this may cause the puffs to collapse.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cheese puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavor and texture of your homemade cheese puffs (gougères)!

Smart Substitutions

Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version of gougères.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like chives or thyme, or spices like paprika for added flavor.
Non-Dairy Butter: Use a non-dairy butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Problems & Prevention

Flat Gougères: If your cheese puffs do not rise, ensure your oven is fully preheated and that you did not open the door while baking.
Too Dense: This may happen if you add the eggs too quickly or if the dough is not mixed well enough. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Cheese Leakage: If the cheese leaks during baking, ensure that you are using finely grated cheese for better incorporation into the dough.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the gougères in the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from becoming too dry.

Storage Pro Tips

Cheese puffs (gougères) are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked gougères in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until warmed through and crisp.

Questions People Ask

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before piping and baking.

What can I serve with cheese puffs (gougères)?

These cheese puffs pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, soups, or salads. They make a great accompaniment to wine or cocktails at gatherings!

Can I use only one kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use just cheddar, gruyère, or any cheese of your choice. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change based on the cheese you select.

What if my gougères sink after baking?

This can occur if the choux pastry was not cooked long enough before adding the eggs, or if the oven temperature is too low. Ensure you cook the flour and water mixture thoroughly before adding the eggs and bake at the correct temperature.

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Wrap-Up

Cheese puffs (gougères) are a delightful fusion of culinary simplicity and gourmet flair. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. With their rich, cheesy flavor and airy texture, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Follow this reliable recipe, and you’ll have a delicious batch of cheese puffs that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the baking process, and savor every cheesy bite!