A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN
Our hospitality team has ordered gougères from caterers for years. This classic cheese puff certainly makes for an impressive appetizer—light and airy, with just a touch of satisfying chewiness, they are the perfect bite to serve alongside sparkling wines. We were so inspired by this elegant pairing, we decided to make it for ourselves. From start to finish, they take around 40 minutes to whip up, and they are definitely worth the effort.
This iteration is faithful to classic French recipes that are based on pâte à choux pastry dough. We’ve added just a touch of pink peppercorn for a little hint of spice. Try them with our 2018 Mia Mousseux Brut Rosé or Blanc de Blancs to kick off your holiday festivities.
Recipe
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup whole milk
1 stick unsalted butter, melted
A pinch of sea salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
4 ounces shredded Gruyère
freshly ground pink peppercorns
freshly ground grated nutmeg
EQUIPMENT
Pastry bag plus 1/2″ round tip for piping
INSTRUCTIONS
Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat to 400°. Line two baking sheets with parchment.
In a medium-sized sauce pan, combine the water, milk, butter, and salt and bring to a boil. Add the flour and stir with a spatula until a thick dough forms.
Turn the dough out into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then beat in the eggs, one at a time, until they are fully incorporated. Stir in the Gruyère, pepper, and nutmeg. Transfer the dough into a pastry bag, then pipe the gougères (around 1 tablespoon each) onto the baking sheets, leaving 1-1/2″ between each puff. Sprinkle with the remaining Gruyère.
Bake for 17-20 minutes, until the gougères are perfectly puffed and golden brown. Serve with bubbles and enjoy!
