Cheddar Cheese Puffs
Looking to impress your friends and family with a delightful savory treat? These Cheddar Cheese Puffs are just the ticket! With their golden, crispy exteriors and cheesy, fluffy interiors, they make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. You’ll love how they come together easily and disappear even faster!
Top Reasons to Make Cheddar Cheese Puffs
- Deliciously cheesy: The sharp cheddar cheese brings a burst of flavor that you can’t resist.
- Easy to make: The steps are straightforward, making it a great recipe for novice bakers.
- Versatile: Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a brunch spread.
- Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these puffs fit right in.
Ingredient Checklist
- 1/2 cup salted butter (1 stick) – The base for that rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk – Adds creaminess to the batter.
- 1/2 cup water – Helps create the perfect dough consistency.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the flavor with a subtle tang.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adds a hint of heat without overwhelming the cheese.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The foundation for the puffs.
- 4 large eggs – Provides structure and richness.
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated – The star ingredient that makes these puffs cheesy and delicious.
- 2 stalks scallions, cut into small rounds – For a fresh, oniony flavor.
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing bowl – For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly.
- Saucepan – Required for cooking the butter, milk, and water.
- Baking sheet – To place the puffs while baking.
- Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – To portion out the dough evenly.
Cheddar Cheese Puffs, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the puffs from sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the salted butter, whole milk, water, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper. Stir the mixture until the butter melts completely and the liquid is hot but not boiling.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Once the butter mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and quickly add the all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball of dough.
Step 4: 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 until fully incorporated. The dough should be glossy and smooth.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Scallions
Fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and chopped scallions until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Shape the Puffs
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture!
Health-Conscious Tweaks
- Substitute low-fat milk for whole milk for a lighter option.
- Use a reduced-fat cheddar cheese to cut back on calories.
- Incorporate whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Add spinach or kale to boost the veggie content.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for added nutrients and flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the puffs don’t rise, ensure your dough was mixed well after adding the eggs. A smooth, airy batter is crucial.
- For crispy puffs, avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can release steam and affect texture.
- If the puffs turn out too dense, try adding an extra egg to lighten the dough.
- Make sure to use fresh baking ingredients for the best results; old flour or expired baking soda can affect the rise.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Cheddar Cheese Puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the puffs are done baking?
The puffs should be golden brown and puffed up. You can also tap one on the bottom; if it sounds hollow, they’re ready!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these puffs gluten-free.
What can I serve with Cheddar Cheese Puffs?
These puffs pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or a simple garlic aioli.
Final Bite
These Cheddar Cheese Puffs are a delightful treat that combines simplicity with flavor, making them a hit at any gathering. The rich, cheesy goodness wrapped in a light and airy pastry will have your guests coming back for seconds (or thirds!). With the ease of preparation and the ability to customize them to your liking, you’ll find yourself making these puffs time and time again. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these puffs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Happy baking!
Cheddar Cheese Puffs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the puffs from sticking.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the salted butter, whole milk, water, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the butter melts completely and the liquid is hot but not boiling.
- Once the butter mixture is hot, remove it from the heat and quickly add the all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until it forms a smooth ball of dough.
- Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. The dough should be glossy and smooth.
- Fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and chopped scallions until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture!
Notes
- Cheddar Cheese Puffs are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Freeze unbaked puffs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid for easy baking later.
- Experiment with different cheeses or herbs for a personalized flavor!
