Appetizer > Cheese Plates

Cheesy Puff Bites Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

3. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly.

4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk until a dough forms.

5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

6. Dip each ball into the beaten egg, then roll in the grated Parmesan cheese.

7. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and puffed up.

9. Serve warm.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 20 bites

Nutritional information:
Calories: 90
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 170mg
Total carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 0g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of shredded cheese you like instead of cheddar.
- If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use another type of grated cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped herbs, such as parsley or chives, to the dough for extra flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the dough for a meaty twist.
- Use different spices, such as garlic powder or onion powder, to customize the flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it with the dry ingredients.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the bites will be tough.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the bites are not puffing up, try increasing the oven temperature by 25°F (10°C).

Storage instructions:
Store the cheesy puff bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the bites, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cheesy puff bites on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives

Pairings:
Serve the cheesy puff bites with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Suggested side dishes:
- Crudité platter with dip
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
- If the bites are spreading too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the bites are too salty, reduce the amount of salt in the recipe.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces that come into contact with the dough and ingredients.
- Use pasteurized eggs to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Food history:
Puff pastry has been around since ancient times, but the modern version we know today was developed in France in the 17th century. Cheesy puff bites are a fun twist on this classic pastry.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, slightly spicy

Serving suggestions:
Serve the cheesy puff bites as an appetizer or snack. They're perfect for parties or game day gatherings.

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Taste: Crispy, Cheesy, Savory, Buttery, Garlicky