Pin Recipe Cheese Puffs are light, airy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. These little savory treats are perfect for any occasion, whether as an appetizer, a snack, or a side dish. With a golden-brown exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, they are sure to impress. This recipe is easy to make and only requires a few simple ingredients, so you can enjoy these irresistible puffs in no time!
I first tasted cheese puffs at a holiday gathering, and ever since they've become a family favorite. Their cheesy aroma is always a hit when friends come over, and I love how simple the ingredients list is.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
- Milk: 1 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Large eggs: 2
- Grated cheese: 1 cup (cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh herbs: Thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and milk:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter is fully melted and the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- Combine dry ingredients:
- Add flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and baking powder to the saucepan. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a dough.
- Add eggs:
- Allow the dough to cool for a minute or two. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and shiny.
- Mix in cheese:
- Stir in the grated cheese until evenly distributed.
- Shape the puffs:
- Using a spoon or piping bag, drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each puff.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. The puffs should be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm.
Pin Recipe On weekend mornings, my children eagerly wait by the oven for these puffs to finish baking so we can share them together with fresh juice. It's a fun tradition that always brings smiles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese puffs as appetizers for your next gathering or alongside a bowl of soup for a comforting meal. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh herb dip.
Storage
Keep leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness before enjoying again.
Flavor Variations
Try adding chopped herbs, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or use different cheeses to make each batch unique and exciting.
Pin Recipe Pop these cheese puffs into your oven for a quick, delicious treat. They'll disappear fast, so you may want to make a double batch!
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of cheese works best for these puffs?
Cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, or any combination of your favorite cheeses complements the light, airy texture.
- → How do I achieve a golden and crispy outside?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) until puffs are well risen and golden-brown. Avoid underbaking to ensure a crisp crust.
- → Can fresh herbs be added?
Yes, fresh thyme or rosemary provide an aromatic boost and pair well with the cheesy flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare the dough ahead of time?
Preparing the dough fresh is recommended, but you can pipe the dough onto a sheet and refrigerate briefly before baking.
- → Why do my cheese puffs deflate after baking?
This may occur if the dough is too wet or if the oven wasn't hot enough. Ensure eggs are mixed in well and bake until set.
- → How should leftover puffs be stored?
Store cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer keeping.