Cheesy Dream Puffs

Ingredients:

For the Pastry (Choux Dough):

• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Choux Pastry

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine water, milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer until the butter melts completely.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a dough ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Shape the Puffs

6. Fold in the cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, and paprika into the dough, mixing until well incorporated.
7. Transfer the dough to a piping bag (or use two spoons) and pipe small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Turn off the oven and let the puffs sit inside for an additional 5 minutes to ensure they stay fluffy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm for the best cheesy pull effect!

Optional Garnishes:

• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
• Drizzle with garlic butter or serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.