Cheddar Cheese Puffs

Homemade cheddar cheese puffs with cracked golden tops on a marble tray, garnished with shredded cheddar and chives. — Freshly baked Cheddar Cheese Puffs with cracked golden tops, served on a marble tray with shredded cheddar and chives – FoodForYourGood.com

Cheddar Cheese Puffs are the kind of irresistible snack that disappears as soon as they hit the table. With their golden, crisp exterior and light, airy center, these little bites are bursting with sharp cheddar flavor, a touch of garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika. They’re the perfect balance of cheesy richness and delicate texture, making them ideal for parties, brunches, or just a cozy night in.

Originating from the classic French gougère, these puffs bring a playful twist by using sharp cheddar instead of Gruyère. This swap makes them approachable, familiar, and even more crave-worthy. The best part? They come together quickly with just a handful of ingredients and a little baking magic.

Whether you serve them warm as a party appetizer or enjoy them as a savory snack, Cheddar Cheese Puffs will win over every cheese lover. Bake a batch, and watch them vanish in minutes.

Recipe Yield: 28–32 puffs

INGREDIENTS

1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs, room temperature
1¼ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
1 cup water
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a gentle kick)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat and prepare:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Boil the base:
In a medium saucepan, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil over medium heat. Stir until butter is fully melted.

3. Add the flour:
Reduce heat to low. Add flour all at once, stirring vigorously until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 2 minutes.

4. Cool slightly:
Transfer dough to a mixing bowl. Let rest for 5 minutes so the eggs won’t cook when added.

5. Beat in eggs:
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until dough is smooth, glossy, and slightly thick.

6. Add cheese and seasoning:
Fold in cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly distributed.

7. Pipe or scoop:
Transfer dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, or use a spoon to drop 1-inch mounds onto prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake to perfection:
Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until puffs are golden, crisp, and hollow-sounding when tapped. Avoid opening the oven early to prevent collapse.

9. Serve warm:
Enjoy immediately for the best cheesy aroma and texture, or cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

Choose sharp cheddar: Aged sharp cheddar delivers a richer, bolder flavor that stands out in every bite.
Don’t skip resting the dough: Letting the dough cool slightly before adding eggs ensures the perfect puff texture.
Bake without opening the door: Keeping the oven closed during baking guarantees the puffs stay tall and airy.

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