Playoff Puffs

Playoff Puffs are a type of savory appetizer made with a choux pastry shell and a creamy, cheesy filling. They are a popular snack for sporting events, particularly during playoff seasons.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe yields light, airy pastry puffs with a rich and savory interior. They are easy to eat while watching a game and can be prepared in advance.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar or Gruyère)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon or ham (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine water and butter. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and add flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and shiny.
6. Stir in grated cheese, and any optional ingredients like bacon or paprika.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during the first 15 minutes of baking.
9. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. For filled puffs, you can slice them in half and add a filling after baking.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

The dough is best used immediately after preparation for optimal rising.

Why did my puffs deflate?

This is often caused by opening the oven door too early during the baking process or underbaking.

Can I freeze Playoff Puffs?

Yes, baked and cooled puffs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month.

You Must Know

The choux pastry must be cooked over the heat until it forms a ball to ensure the proper texture. Beating the eggs in thoroughly is crucial for the structure of the puffs.

Storage Tips

Store completely cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze and re-crisp in a warm oven before serving.