Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Cheese Puffs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 31 reviews

These classic Cheese Puffs are light, airy, and packed with sharp cheddar cheese flavor. Made from a choux pastry dough that is cooked on the stovetop then baked until puffed and golden, they make an irresistible savory appetizer or snack. The dough is enriched with butter, eggs, and Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar cheese for a rich and cheesy bite. Perfect for parties, brunch, or anytime you crave a delicious, cheesy puff.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 cheese puffs

Ingredients

Liquid Mixture

  • 1 cup milk or water
  • 1 stick unsalted butter (½ cup)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Dough and Filling

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar, finely shredded

For Egg Wash

  • 2 tablespoons reserved beaten eggs
  • 1 teaspoon water

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Make the Dough Base: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk (or water), butter, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat to melt the butter and blend the flavors.
  3. Add Flour: Reduce the heat to low and add all of the flour at once. Stir vigorously until the dough forms a smooth ball that pulls away from the sides and bottom of the pan and is no longer sticky—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes to prevent eggs from cooking when added.
  4. Prepare Eggs: While the dough cools, completely whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the eggs for the egg wash and set aside.
  5. Incorporate Eggs and Cheese: Gradually add the whisked eggs to the dough a little at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition to maintain a smooth texture. Once all eggs are incorporated, stir in the finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly throughout the dough.
  6. Pipe the Puffs: Transfer the dough to a piping bag or place it in a freezer bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe 1-inch diameter circles, about 3/4 inch high, onto the prepared baking sheets. Use wet fingers to gently smooth the tops of each mound to ensure even puffing.
  7. Apply Egg Wash and Cheese Topping: Whisk the reserved 2 tablespoons of egg with 1 teaspoon water and brush over the tops of the puffs. Optionally, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness and browning.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 425°F to create a good initial puff. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 18-19 minutes until the puffs are fully puffed, golden brown, and crisp on the outside.

Notes

  • Use finely shredded cheese to ensure it incorporates well into the dough for even flavor.
  • You can substitute milk with water or a half milk/half water mixture; milk will give a richer flavor.
  • Cook the flour mixture thoroughly to remove stickiness and help the dough pull cleanly away from the saucepan, stirring consistently on low heat.
  • Allow the dough to cool slightly before mixing in eggs and cheese to avoid scrambling the eggs.
  • Use wet fingers to smooth the tops of piped dough for better puff shape and appearance.
  • Egg wash helps achieve a shiny, golden crust and supports browning.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-inspired

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/cheese-puffs-recipe/