Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

150 milliliters water (0.6 cups)
70 grams unsalted butter (2.5 ounces)
90 grams all-purpose flour (3.2 ounces)
2 large eggs
a pinch of salt

Cheese Ingredients

100 grams grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Cheddar) (3.5 ounces)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Dough

In a medium saucepan, combine 150 milliliters of water and 70 grams of butter. Heat on medium until the butter is fully melted.

Once the butter has melted, add a pinch of salt and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Remove the pan from heat and immediately add 90 grams of all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Step 2

Incorporate Eggs

Let the dough cool for a few minutes. Then, add the 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should be smooth and glossy.

It is essential to fully incorporate each egg to achieve the right texture.

Step 3

Add Cheese

Once the eggs are incorporated, fold in 100 grams of grated cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

This will enhance the flavor and give your gougères a cheesy richness.

Step 4

Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Using a spoon or a pastry bag, dollop or pipe small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one for expansion.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the gougères are puffed and golden brown.

Step 5

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the gougères to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and are perfect for pairing with a glass of sparkling wine.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors!

Servings

Serving your Gougères is all about presentation and pairing! Imagine a beautifully arranged platter showcasing these delightful pastries at your next gathering. Serve them warm! You can pair them with a light salad for a casual lunch or alongside a glass of bubbly for a more elegant affair. Add a dip! A creamy garlic or herbed aioli can enhance the flavors and offer guests a chance to personalize their experience. 🌿🥗

If hosting a themed dinner, these cheese bites can be a fun addition! Consider adding a lovely charcuterie board to complement the textures and flavors of the gougères. 🧀🍖 Don't forget to invite everyone to relax and enjoy the moment together, savoring each fluffy bite!

Equipment

Cooking Chef XL

This kitchen machine does the heavy lifting for you, ensuring the precise temperature for cooking the dough while keeping your hands free!

Variations

If you need a gluten-free option, simply use a gluten-free flour blend that mimics regular flour’s properties. Try almond or coconut flour for a nutty twist! 🌰 Additionally, you can create a delicious vegan version by replacing the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and using almond milk instead of regular milk. These variations still promise incredible flavors! 🌱🥛

Faq

  • I'm new to baking, what are gougères exactly?

    Gougères are delightful French pastries made from choux pastry, mixed with cheese and baked until golden. They're light, airy, and perfect for snacking!

  • How do I know if my gougères are done baking?

    They should be puffed, golden brown outside, and have a hollow sound when tapped. Avoid opening the oven too early to keep them from collapsing!

  • Can I freeze gougères after baking?

    Yes! You can freeze them after baking. Just reheat them in the oven for crispiness before serving!

  • What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?

    You can incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary into the dough, or use different cheeses like Gruyère for a richer taste!

  • How can I prevent my gougères from deflating?

    Ensure you cook the dough long enough to evaporate excess moisture. Also, letting them cool with the oven door ajar can help.

  • What’s the best way to serve warm gougères?

    Serve immediately after baking as they taste best warm! Pair them with wines or cocktails for a delightful treat.

Nutrition facts

Light and Cheesy Gougères Recipe for Any Occasion
Recipe Yield:4 servings
Calories:Approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the cheese used and portion size.
Calories (Min - Max):150 - 200
Total Fat:10g
Saturated Fat:6g
Protein:6g
Total Carbohydrate:12g
Total Sugars:1g