Savory Cheese Puffs


Savory Cheese Puffs

What’s not to love about an hors d’oeuvre that looks and tastes sophisticated but is simple to create? We like to keep a stash of these puffs in the freezer in case of unexpected guests. And unexpected cravings.


Ingredients Directions

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
1/8 teaspoon baking powder
2 eggs
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
coarse salt

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine the butter, milk, salt, and white pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat and add the flour and baking powder. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball (this happens almost immediately).

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated. Stir in the cheese.

Drop the mixture in rounded teaspoons about 1 inch apart on the baking sheet. Sprinkle each with coarse salt. Bake until golden brown and puffed, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm.

Makes about 32 puffs

Make-Ahead Factor

The uncooked individual puffs can be made 2 to 3 weeks ahead. Freeze them on a baking sheet until hard, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. To serve, remove from freezer, transfer directly to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet without thawing and bake at 400°F until golden brown and puffed, 20 to 25 minutes.

From Cocktail Parties, Straight Up! Easy Hors D'oeuvres, Delicious Drinks and Inspired Ideas for Entertaining with Style by Lauren and Anne Purcell.