Gougères
Light and airy French cheese puffs made from pâte à choux, flavored with grated cheese. They are typically served as an appetizer or with drinks, and are best enjoyed warm.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Water
- 8 tbsp Unsalted butter(cut into pieces)
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 1 cup All-purpose flour(sifted)
- 5 Large eggs(lightly beaten)
- 1.5 cups Grated cheese(such as Gruyère, Comté, or a mix)
- 0.125 tsp Nutmeg(freshly grated (optional))
- 1 Egg yolk(whisked with 1 tbsp water for egg wash)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
💡 Pro Tips: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. - 2
In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring to melt the butter.
💡 Pro Tips: Ensure the butter is fully melted before proceeding. - 3
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately add the sifted flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball of dough that pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- 4
Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to dry out the dough slightly.
- 5
Transfer the dough to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or use a hand mixer). Let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the beaten eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. The dough will become smooth and glossy.
- 6
Stir in the grated cheese and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.
- 7
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip (or use two spoons). Pipe or spoon mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Aim for about 2 tablespoons of dough per gougère.
- 8
Brush the tops of the piped dough with the egg wash mixture. This will help them brown nicely.
💡 Pro Tips: Ensure the egg wash covers the tops evenly. - 9
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the gougères are puffed, golden brown, and feel light and hollow when tapped.
💡 Pro Tips: Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking, as this can cause them to deflate. - 10
Serve warm. Gougères are best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
💡 Pro Tips: They can be reheated gently in a moderate oven for a few minutes.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use good quality, flavorful cheese like Gruyère or Comté for the best results.
- ✓Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough.
- ✓The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for a few hours before piping and baking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dough for a little spice.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Emmental.