Imagine biting into a light, airy pastry that erupts with sharp cheddar flavor and a tantalizing kick of cayenne pepper - welcome to the world of gougères, the French appetizer that will transform your culinary game! These delicate cheese puffs are not just a recipe; they're a magical culinary experience that combines the elegance of French pastry technique with bold, irresistible flavors that will have your guests begging for more.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, ensuring the butter is completely melted.
- Remove the pan from heat and immediately add all the flour at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Return the pan to low heat and continue stirring for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough, which helps create a lighter pastry.
- Transfer the dough to a large mixing bowl and let it cool for 5 minutes. This prevents the eggs from scrambling when added.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. The dough should become smooth and glossy.
- Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and cayenne pepper, mixing until evenly distributed.
- Using a piping bag or two spoons, drop small mounds (about
- 5 inches in diameter) of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Use a moistened finger to smooth out any pointed peaks on the gougères to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. They should be crisp on the outside and slightly soft on the inside.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Gougères are best served warm.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest dough consistency.
- Beating technique matters: When adding eggs, beat thoroughly after each addition to create a glossy, smooth batter that will result in light, puffy gougères.
- Moisture is key: Use a moistened finger to smooth out peaks, ensuring even, beautiful browning.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Space your gougères about 2 inches apart to allow proper puffing and air circulation.
- Serve immediately: These are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven when they're at their most crispy and flavorful.
- Experiment with cheese: While sharp cheddar is fantastic, try different hard cheeses like Gruyère for unique flavor variations.Pro tip: If your gougères don't puff up perfectly, don't worry! They'll still be delicious, and practice makes perfect.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
