Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)

Name: Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup Water; 8 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (1 stick); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Sugar; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (125g); 4 large Eggs; 2 Tablespoons finely chopped Fresh Herbs (e.g., chives, parsley, thyme); 1 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese (or Gruyere/Parmesan)

By:

Sarah

Published:

October 7, 2025

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Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a plate. Imagine sinking your teeth into light, airy bites that are not only delicious but also pack a delightful punch of fresh herb flavor and gooey cheese goodness. These little puffs are perfect for any gathering or simply to enjoy at home. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! You really don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up a batch. As you follow this recipe, you’ll see how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Plus, the versatility is endless—you can customize them based on your favorite herbs and cheeses, making them your own unique creation. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and jump into the delicious world of Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres). Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of these Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) lies in the balance of flavors and techniques. With fresh herbs and the rich taste of cheese, each bite bursts with harmony. The combination of butter and flour creates a light, airy structure. The techniques used in this recipe are straightforward, ensuring a puff that is crisp outside and delightfully soft inside. Plus, what’s better than a quick recipe that gives you the freedom to choose how you want to serve them? Whether as a party snack or a simple treat, they shine in any role.

Why You’ll Love This Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres)

You’ll absolutely fall for how these Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) melt in your mouth. Their light, airy texture makes them feel like a luxurious treat without too much fuss. These puffs are ideal for parties, cozy snacks, or even as a savory appetizer before dinner. You can get creative and customize them! Whether you prefer peppery herbs or sharp cheeses, this recipe lends itself beautifully to personal touches, making it a perfect way to express your culinary creativity.

Ingredients

1 cup Water
8 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter (1 stick)
1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
1/2 teaspoon Sugar
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (125g)
4 large Eggs
2 Tablespoons finely chopped Fresh Herbs (e.g., chives, parsley, thyme)
1 cup Grated Cheddar Cheese (or Gruyere/Parmesan)

Preparing the Dough for Herb and Cheese Puffs

Combine Water, Butter, Salt, and Sugar

Let’s get started! In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the water, unsalted butter, kosher salt, and sugar to a boil. This step is crucial as it creates the base for our dough.

Add Flour to the Mixture

Once boiling, take the pot off the heat and whisk in the flour. Keep mixing until no lumps remain, and the mixture turns into a smooth paste. Return the pan to low heat for a few minutes to stir until the dough pulls away from the sides. You’ll know you’re on the right track when it forms a cohesive ball!

Cool the Dough

Next, transfer your dough to a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. This is a crucial part of the process—beat on low speed for a minute or so to cool down the dough. This helps prevent the eggs from scrambling when you add them later.

Incorporate Eggs One by One

With the mixer on low, add each egg one by one. It’s essential to mix well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. After all the eggs are combined, increase the speed. Beat for 2-3 minutes until the batter looks glossy and smooth—this is what will give your puffs their perfect texture!

Fold in Herbs and Cheese

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh herbs and grated cheese until everything is evenly mixed. The aroma will be irresistible, signaling that these Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) are going to be phenomenal!

Shaping the Herb and Cheese Puffs

Transfer Dough to Baking Sheet

Grab a pastry bag or simply a greased tablespoon. Use it to drop even portions of your dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Remember to leave some space between each puff! They’ll rise beautifully in the oven.

Baking the Herb and Cheese Puffs

Bake for Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your baking sheet in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the puffs turn a lovely golden brown. The smell that wafts through your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly!

Serving Suggestions

These Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) are best served warm right out of the oven. They make fantastic appetizers or snacks and can be paired with various dips or sauces. Want something a bit extra? Consider serving them alongside herb-infused butter for an even richer experience.

Tips for Success

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Avoid opening the oven door while baking, as this can affect the puff structure and lead to flat bites.
Feel free to experiment! Different types of cheese can completely change the flavor profile and take these puffs to the next level.

Variations

Want to mix things up? You can easily replace cheddar with blue cheese or feta for a sharper flavor. Adding spices like smoked paprika brings a unique twist; simply sprinkle it into the dough. You can also try a combination of herbs like basil, dill, or tarragon for a different aromatic experience.

Storage Tips

If you manage to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. This will help regain their character and prevent them from becoming limp.

Pairing Ideas

These flavorful puffs pair excellently with a fresh salad for a light meal. Consider pairing them with a crisp white wine or a light beer, enhancing the whole culinary experience. They also work perfectly as finger foods amidst charcuterie boards or vegetable platters during gatherings.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Herb and Cheese Puffs?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Place them in an airtight container for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, just pull them out and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. What herbs work best in this recipe?
A delightful mix of chives, parsley, and thyme creates wonderful flavors, but you can use whichever herbs you love the most.

3. Can I make these without a stand mixer?
Certainly! You can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand, though it may require a bit more effort to combine the eggs thoroughly.

4. How do I know when my gougeres are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color and puffy shape. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

5. Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour alternative, you can make them gluten-free, although the texture may vary slightly.

With this Herb and Cheese Puffs (Gougeres) recipe, you’ll create a treat that’s bursting with flavor—perfect for any occasion. Their light, airy texture and savory goodness will impress everyone, while they remain simple enough to whip up quickly. So gather your friends and family around, and enjoy sharing these delightful bites; it’s all about having fun in the kitchen!