These French cheese puffs (gougères) are enhanced with a spicy jalapeño twist, giving a traditional dish a modern, flavorful upgrade!
Ingredients
- 1/2cupwater
- 1/2cupwhole milk
- 1/2cupunsalted butter, cubed
- 1cupall-purpose flour
- 4piecelarge eggs
- 1cupgrated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
- 1piecejalapeño pepper, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4cupgrated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2tspgarlic powder
- 1/4tspsmoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make Savory French Cheese Puffs with a Spicy Jalapeño Twist
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Dough (Pâte à Choux)
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture begins to simmer.
Remove from heat, then quickly stir in the flour all at once. Keep stirring until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Cool and Add Eggs
Let the dough cool for a few minutes, then add the eggs one at a time, stirring vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
Mix in Cheese and Jalapeños
Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a bit of black pepper.
Shape the Puffs
Use a spoon or a piping bag with a round tip to drop small mounds of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each puff as they will expand while baking.
Top with Parmesan
Sprinkle the tops of the puffs with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy crunch.
Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and puffed up. Don’t open the oven while they’re baking, as this can cause them to deflate.
Serve
Serve the cheese puffs warm. These are perfect as an appetizer or snack, with the jalapeño twist adding a delightful kick!
Tips & Tricks
For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeño.
Ensure the dough is cool enough before adding eggs to prevent them from cooking.
Do not open the oven during baking to avoid deflating the puffs.
@chefspalette
Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines,...