Cheese Puffs

Cheese puffs are one of those snacks that are both fulfilling and delightful.

They will fill you up, and at the same time, they taste great! It is made with dough and shredded cheese, while the outer portion turns into a fried-like batter.

This cheese puffs recipe is easy, and you will enjoy the outcome, whether watching TV or visiting with family and friends. 

Have you ever made cheese puffs? Time to make them 🙂

They are loaded with all the favorite cheese blends.

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why I love Cheese Puffs?

• Homemade cheese puffs are full of flavor and the perfect finger food. 
• They are fun to make and create a beautiful aroma throughout the home.

Are cheese puffs fried or baked?

Cheese puffs are baked in the oven, but the outer edges and dough are made with a batter that fries as it bakes in the oven. They are not fried in grease but are baked in enough heat that leaves the outside crispy while the inside is cheesy. 

How do they make cheese puffs puffy?

The cheese is mixed with dough that gives it its shape and puffiness. 

How to serve Cheese Puffs?

Cheese puffs are shaped into round balls as it bakes. When they are done, they are carefully placed in a bowl or on a tray for easy access. Most people grab however many they want, and the munching begins. 

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure you use the correct mixture of flour and eggs for the batter. Too much flour will leave a gritty taste and texture, while too many eggs will leave the batter runny. 
• The flour and sugar must dissolve entirely, or the batter will fail. 
• Remove the cheese puffs from the oven as soon as they turn brown. If they brown too much, they will burn and have to be thrown away. They cannot be salvaged once they are overcooked. 

Variations:

The batter and the dough stay the same. However, you may use whatever type of cheese your favorite is. If you use mozzarella, remember the cheese will be extra stretchy. You can also try different shapes, but they cook better shaped into balls the way the recipe calls for it. 

Ingredients:

• Half and half
• Water
• Butter unsalted
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Large eggs
• Shredded gruyere cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese

How to make Cheese Puffs:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Step 2. In a saucepan over low heat, add the water, half and half, 8 tbsp butter cut into pieces, salt and sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring often until the butter and sugar are completely melted.

Adding the half and half.

Adding the sugar.

Step 3. Raise the temperature to medium heat, and bring the mixture in the saucepan to a heavy simmer.

Step 4. Remove the saucepan from the heat, and quickly stir in the flour until completely combined and smooth.

Step 5. Return the mixture to the heat, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring often.

Step 6. Place the mixture into a mixing bowl with a paddle attachment, and beat until you no longer see steam rising from the bowl.

Step 7. Add the eggs one at a time, and continue to beat the mixture until well combined.

Step 8. Mix the cheese into the dough until well incorporated.

Step 9. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to place balls of dough onto a parchment or silicone mat-lined baking sheet. 

Step 10. Reduce the heat in the oven to 375 and place the cheese puffs into the oven immediately.

Step 11. Cook for 15-20 minutes until lightly browned, puffed up, and cooked through.

SAVE this recipe on Pinterest for later 🙂

How to store Cheese Puffs?

If the cheese puffs are cooked thoroughly, they shouldn’t stick together. They will separate easily when you are ready for the next serving. They must go in the fridge or freezer, or they will go bad within two hours at room temperature. You can put them in a ziplock bag or in an air-tight container.

How to reheat Cheese Puffs?

The best way to reheat cheese puffs is to set the oven to a low temperature and reheat them in the same manner as they were cooked on a pan in the oven. Take caution that they do not brown more than when they are first cooked and that they do not burn. It should not take more than five to ten minutes to reheat. 

How much does Cheese Puffs last on the fridge?

If the air doesn’t get to the cheese puffs, they can stay in the fridge for up to two weeks at 40 degrees or below. However, you may find the original flavor dissipates after a week in the refrigerator, but they are safe to eat. Look for color changes or a foul smell when opening the container or bag.

Can I make ahead Cheese Puffs?

Yes, you may prepare 24 hours in advance, but since you are dealing with raw eggs, it is best to do everything on the same day. 

Related Recipes you Might Enjoy:

Jalapeno cheese puffs: Taking this recipe and sprucing it up with jalapenos makes these cheese puffs pop with fire.

Homemade fried mozzarella sticks: The perfect snack is what we can say is best about this recipe. Those who love cheese with homemade fried batter can only find this recipe made straight out of your kitchen. 

Easy cheesy taco sticks: This recipe is perfect for cheese and taco lovers. They make the ideal snack and meal if you grab enough of them.

Chili cheese dog bake: This recipe compares to a pig in a blanket, with the added chili and cheese. Make it and put it in the oven, and enjoy!