Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) Recipe

If you are craving a delightful snack that feels fancy yet comes together effortlessly, this Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little puffs are light, airy, and packed with rich cheddar cheese flavor that simply melts in your mouth. Perfect for elevating your appetizer game or accompanying a cozy bowl of soup, they strike the perfect balance between crispy on the outside and tender within. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for these golden bites at every gathering and weeknight craving alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these irresistible cheese puffs lies in a few simple but essential ingredients, each thoughtfully contributing to the dish’s perfect taste, texture, and appearance. From the creamy butter and sharp cheddar to the aromatic thyme, every element plays its part in making this recipe unforgettable.

• ½ cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender, flaky texture in the dough.
• ½ cup water: Adds moisture for the dough to come together smoothly.
• ½ cup milk: Brings creaminess and helps give the puffs a slightly soft crumb.
• ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate balance.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that transforms the wet ingredients into a beautiful dough.
• 4 large eggs: Essential for structure and the incredible puffiness of these gougeres.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for topping: The star ingredient, adding bold, tangy flavor and lovely melty pockets.
• 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the cheese perfectly.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory depth without being overpowering.
• ½ tsp black pepper: A touch of warmth and spice to round things out.

How to Make Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets you up for success by ensuring your cheese puffs bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Make the Dough Base

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, water, milk, and kosher salt. Heat until the mixture comes to a rapid boil—this ensures the butter melts fully and the liquid mixture is hot enough to cook the flour properly in the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Flour

Remove the saucepan from heat and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously to combine, then return the pan to low heat. Cook, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until the dough forms a ball and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. This step is crucial as it cooks out excess moisture and sets the foundation for those airy puffs.

Step 4: Cool the Dough and Add Eggs

Transfer the dough ball to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat on low speed for 3-4 minutes to cool the dough slightly, which prevents the eggs from cooking when added. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Once all eggs are added, beat on medium speed for another 2-3 minutes until the dough is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Flavorings

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper. This is where your gougeres really start to develop their bold, savory flavor. Make sure everything is evenly mixed so each puff bursts with cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Use a large spoon or a small cookie scoop to drop mounds of the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow room for rising. Sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheddar on top of each mound for a beautifully cheesy crust. Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the puffs turn a gorgeous golden brown.

How to Serve Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) Recipe

Garnishes

These cheese puffs are excellent on their own, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or chives just before serving adds a fresh pop of color and flavor that makes them irresistible at any party or family meal.

Side Dishes

Cheddar Cheese Puffs pair wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato bisque, butternut squash, or French onion. Their light, airy texture is the perfect contrast to creamy, warm bowls of comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these gougeres alongside a spread of dips such as Dijon mustard, horseradish cream, or a smoky roasted red pepper sauce. You can also thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and olives for a playful appetizer platter that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll maintain their delicate texture best this way, rather than in the fridge, which can make them soggy.

Freezing

To freeze, cool the baked puffs completely on a wire rack, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a resealable bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month. This method keeps them fresh and ready whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or leftover gougeres in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, which can make them lose their signature crispness and airiness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyere, Parmesan, or even a blend of cheeses to create unique flavors. Just keep in mind the moisture content, as it affects the dough’s texture.

Why do the puffs need to be baked at two different temperatures?

The high initial temperature helps the puffs rise quickly, creating that signature airy interior and crisp exterior. Lowering the temperature afterward ensures they cook through evenly without burning.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

The dough is best used fresh for the lightest texture, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick stir before baking.

Are these cheese puffs gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, with the right gluten-free flour blend and a few adjustments, you could experiment to create a similar loaf texture.

Can I freeze the gougeres before baking?

Yes! After shaping the dough into mounds, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a storage bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Cheddar Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without these golden, cheesy clouds of joy. They bring elegance to any occasion without fuss and possess the kind of comforting flavor that turns simple moments into memories. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and share them with your loved ones—they’re truly a crowd-pleaser, every time.

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