Cheese Gougères
Ingredients (for about 25 gougères):
100g butter
250ml water
150g flour
4 eggs
120g grated Gruyère cheese (or Comté, Emmental, Parmesan, etc.)
1 pinch of salt
Pepper and nutmeg (optional)
Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) (fan-assisted).
Prepare the choux pastry:
In a saucepan, heat the water with the butter and salt. As soon as the mixture boils, add the flour all at once, then stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pan (1 to 2 minutes).
Dry the dough slightly:
Return the saucepan to low heat and continue stirring for 1 to 2 minutes to dry the dough out completely.
Add the eggs one at a time:
Off the heat, incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. The batter should become smooth and pliable.
Add the grated cheese:
Stir in the cheese, a little pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Shape the gougères:
Using two spoons or a piping bag, drop small mounds of batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave space between each one.
Bake:
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the gougères are well risen and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking.
Tips:
You can add diced ham, herbs, or blue cheese to vary the flavors.
They freeze very well once baked. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.