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Cheese Puffs

These homemade Cheese Puffs are the ultimate bite-sized treat! With rich cheddar flavor, a hint of buttery warmth, and just a touch of paprika for spice, they’re an instant crowd-pleaser.

Main image for Cheese Puffs Recipe

Today I’m going to introduce you to an easy cheese puff recipe you will reach for again and again. It’s my new favorite recipe.

You only need 4 basic ingredients and a little bit of time to make these better than store bought snacks.

And because you are making them at home, these cheese puff balls are better for you than the ones in the store loaded with preservatives.

Store bought puffs are less work, but homemade puffs are better for you, and with a 4 ingredient list, they are a great addition to your snacks to make at home list.

They are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or party treats—they fit any setting!

And you can customize them with your favorite type of cheese or blend of cheeses for a personalized twist.

Prepare several batches in advance, pop them in the freezer, and bake when you need them. That means the next day you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with friends and family.

Once you try this cheese puffs recipe, you will understand why these little puffs are a staple in my home.

Cheese Puffs

basket of cheese puffs with a few spilling over the edge.

This homemade Cheese Puffs Recipe is buttery, cheesy, and easy to make! A perfect snack or party appetizer, they’ll be the hit of the party!

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Cream together cheese and butter.
  2. Add flour and paprika, mix well.
  3. Roll into marble sized balls and bake at 350*F for 15 minutes.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 364Total Fat: 28gSaturated Fat: 17gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 78mgSodium: 369mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 1gSugar: 0gProtein: 11g
All ingredients laid out on the counter.

What Ingredients Are in This Cheese Puffs Recipe?

  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish, cheddar provides bold, tangy flavor and a creamy texture when melted.
  • Salted Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. If you only have unsalted butter, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt for every 1/2 cup of butter.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base that gives structure and ensures light and airy cheese puff chips.
  • Paprika: A seasoning that enhances the cheese’s flavor with a hint of spice.

Pro Tips:

  • Always grate your own cheese for better melting and texture. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the recipe.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to mix evenly and achieve the perfect dough consistency.
  • You can use different cheeses or a combination of cheeses to make your own cheesy flavor combinations. Try adding parmesan cheese, gruyere cheese, or swiss cheese for classic combinations. You can also use mild cheddar if you prefer less flavorful cheeses.
Butter and cheese in a mixing bowl unmixed.

How to Make This Cheese Puffs Recipe:

  1. Mix softened butter and grated cheese with a wooden spoon in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add flour and paprika to the butter mixture, stirring until you have a well combined smooth dough.
  3. Shape cheese mixture into marble-sized balls.
  4. Arrange balls on baking trays lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven until golden and puffed.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips:

  • Use a small cookie scoop for uniform puffs that bake evenly.
  • Refrigerate the dough briefly if it’s too soft to handle.
  • Don’t overbake; watch for the edges to turn lightly golden brown.
flour and paprika added to mixing bowl unmixed

Are Cheese Puffs Gluten-Free?

No, traditional Cheese Puffs are not gluten-free because they use all-purpose flour.

However, you can easily substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking for the best results.

How to Store Cheese Puffs Recipe:

Store cooled Cheese Puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

All ingredients mixed up in a mixing bowl.

Can You Freeze Cheese Puffs Recipe?

Yes, these cheese puffs freeze beautifully. Freeze the unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen on a parchment-lined baking sheet, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Pro Tip: To make these in the summer, use a toaster oven or counter top oven instead of heating up your house using your regular oven.

cheese puffs on baking sheet baked

When to Eat Cheese Puffs Recipe:

This Cheese Puffs Recipe is the perfect snack any time of day! Enjoy them as:

  • A savory snack between meals.
  • An appetizer at dinner parties.
  • A side to soups and salads.
  • A side to a cheese party with cream puffs, cream cheese dips, and your favorite goat cheese salad.

If you haven’t had cheese parties, you will love it. Platters of sweet treats and plates of savory flavors all let cheese shine through in different ways.

zoomed in image of cheese puffs on baking sheet

What to Eat with Cheese Puffs Recipe:

Pair this cheese puffs recipe with a bowl of creamy tomato or broccoli soup, fresh salads, or a platter of cured meats and fruits for a chic charcuterie board.

Try some of these great recipes with your homemade cheese puffs:

basket full of cheese puffs

Are Cheese Puffs Recipe Healthy?

This Cheese Puffs Recipe is a delicious indulgence, but they’re not exactly health food.

While they offer protein and calcium from cheese, they’re also high in fat and calories.

To make a lighter version, try using reduced-fat cheese and swapping out some butter for plain yogurt (but that will change the flavor).

basket of cheese puffs with a few spilling over the edge.

If you have never made a cheddar cheese puffs recipe, you are in for a treat. This basic recipe uses 4 ingredients to make a perfectly delicious, loaded with flavor, homemade snack without any extra ingredients.

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