Description
These Cheddar Cheese Puffs are light, airy, and packed with sharp cheddar flavor. Made with a simple dough of flour, butter, eggs, and cheese, they bake up crisp on the outside and tender inside, perfect as a savory snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Dough
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough Base: In a medium saucepan, bring the water and butter to a boil over medium heat. Stir in the salt and garlic powder if using, then remove the pan from heat immediately.
- Add Flour: Quickly add the flour to the hot butter-water mixture, stirring vigorously until the dough forms a thick ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Allow the dough to cool for about 5 minutes to prevent the eggs from cooking when added.
- Incorporate Eggs and Cheese: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and baking powder along with freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing until smooth and well combined.
- Shape Puffs: Drop tablespoon-sized dollops of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for puffing.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown, puffed up, and crisp on the outside yet soft inside.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cheese puffs from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm for the ideal texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the dough.
- Cheese puffs can be made a few hours ahead and warmed up before serving.
- Use freshly grated sharp cheddar for best melting and flavor.
- Ensure eggs are fully incorporated one at a time to maintain dough consistency.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat in the oven for crispiness.
