These cheese puffs are irresistibly delicious! They’re so good that we almost finished them off before we could even take photos. While best enjoyed warm, they’re equally scrumptious when cold.
Preconceptions about Cheese Puffs
I initially wasn’t sure what to expect from these cheese puffs. After all, puffs are often filled with either savory or sweet fillings. However, these are ready to eat straight out of the oven, no filling required.
That makes them incredibly easy to make. And trust me when I say, they are addictively delicious. They taste best when warm, but they’re also good when cold.
The Cheese Factor
We used Comté cheese for these puffs, but you can use any cheese you like. If you don’t have access to specialty cheese stores, simple grated cheese will do. Personally, I love using aged cheese for its sharp flavor, although you can also use mild, young cheese. In that case, consider adding a bit more salt.
Remember to let your flour and butter mixture cool a bit before adding the eggs to prevent them from cooking prematurely.
Shaping the Puffs
Use two spoons to form quenelles of the dough. If you’re not proficient in making quenelles, you can use an ice cream scoop to make round dough balls. The shape doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.
Baking Tips
The baking takes about 20 minutes. Be cautious not to open the oven during this time, or the puffs may collapse. You can let them cool in the oven with the door ajar to maintain their shape.
(Recipe) Cheese Puffs
These cheese puffs are ready to enjoy straight out of the oven.
These cheese puffs are irresistibly delicious! They’re so good that we almost finished them off before we could even take photos. While best enjoyed warm, they’re equally scrumptious when cold.
Ingredients
85 grams grated Comté cheese
½ bunch finely chopped chives
175 ml water
50 grams butter
85 grams flour
2 eggs
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
In a small saucepan, combine butter and water. Bring to a gentle boil. Add flour and a pinch of salt, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a thick dough. Let this cook on low heat for a while.
Transfer the dough to a bowl and allow it to cool slightly. Add eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated.
Stir in 80% of the grated Comté cheese and the finely chopped chives. Season with salt and pepper.
Using two spoons, form small quenelles and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Keep some distance between them, as they will expand.
Sprinkle the remaining Comté cheese over the puffs.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are golden brown and airy. Remember, do not open the oven during baking to prevent the puffs from collapsing.