Appetizer > Savory Appetizers > Cheese Appetizers

Apple and Cheddar Gougères Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup diced apple

Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add salt and flour and stir with a wooden spoon until mixture forms a ball.
5. Remove from heat and transfer to a medium bowl.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes.
7. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
8. Stir in cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and diced apple.
9. Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each mound.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 gougères

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 90
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Butter: Can be substituted with margarine or vegan butter.
- Cheddar cheese: Can be substituted with any type of cheese.
- Gruyere cheese: Can be substituted with any type of cheese.
- Apple: Can be substituted with any type of diced fruit.

Variations:
- Add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough for an herbed gougère.
- Add diced bacon to the dough for a savory twist.
- Add diced jalapeño peppers to the dough for a spicy kick.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is completely melted before adding the flour, otherwise the dough will be lumpy.
- Make sure the dough is completely cooled before adding the eggs, otherwise the eggs will cook in the hot dough.
- Use a tablespoon to measure out the dough for uniform-sized gougères.

Storage Instructions:
Gougères can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Gougères can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation Ideas:
Gougères can be served as an appetizer or snack, or as part of a larger meal. They can be served on a platter or in a basket lined with a napkin.

Garnishes:
Gougères can be garnished with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or with a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Pairings:
Gougères pair well with a variety of wines, such as a dry white or rosé.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Gougères can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as a salad, roasted vegetables, or a soup.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the gougères are not golden brown after baking, increase the oven temperature to 400°F and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
Always use clean utensils and surfaces when preparing food. Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling raw ingredients.

Food History:
Gougères are a classic French pastry, traditionally made with just cheese and no fruit. The addition of fruit is a modern twist on the classic recipe.

Flavor Profiles:
Gougères have a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the diced apple.

Serving Suggestions:
Gougères can be served as an appetizer or snack, or as part of a larger meal. They can be served with a variety of dips or sauces, such as a honey mustard or a garlic aioli.

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Region: French

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Apple, Crispy, Apple-Flavored