Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese are the epitome of French-inspired sophistication. These airy, cheesy puffs infused with aromatic Herbs de Provence and filled with creamy whipped goat cheese are perfect for dinner parties, brunches, or any occasion that calls for a refined touch. Light yet indulgent, these gougères combine rich flavors with an elegant presentation.

In this article, you’ll discover the step-by-step process for making these delightful appetizers, learn tips for perfecting gougères, and explore creative variations to suit any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese

1. Elegant and Delicious

The combination of airy gougères, fragrant herbs, and creamy goat cheese creates a luxurious flavor and texture.

2. Versatile

Perfect as an appetizer, cocktail party snack, or brunch accompaniment.

3. Customizable

Easily adapt the herbs, cheese, or filling to match your preferences or the theme of your gathering.

4. Impressive Yet Easy

Despite their gourmet appearance, gougères are surprisingly simple to make with basic ingredients.

Ingredients for Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese

For the Gougères:

  • 1/2 cup water: Adds moisture to the dough.
  • 1/2 cup milk: Provides richness and flavor.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a tender, flaky texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the pâte à choux dough.
  • 4 large eggs: Gives structure and rise to the gougères.
  • 1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence: Adds an aromatic blend of thyme, rosemary, and lavender.
  • 3/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese: The hallmark of classic gougères, offering nutty, savory notes.

For the Whipped Goat Cheese:

  • 4 ounces goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, perfect for the filling.
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream: Lightens the texture of the goat cheese.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped: Infuses the filling with earthy, fresh flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy goat cheese.
  • Pinch of salt and black pepper: Enhances and balances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese

Step 1: Make the Gougères

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Heat the liquid and butter: In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture begins to boil.
  3. Add the flour: Remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in the flour using a wooden spoon. Return to low heat and stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
  4. Incorporate the eggs: Let the dough cool for 5 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
  5. Add herbs and cheese: Stir in the Herbs de Provence and grated Gruyère cheese until evenly distributed.
  6. Pipe or scoop: Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip, or use a spoon to drop 1-inch mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the gougères are puffed and golden. Let them cool slightly before filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Goat Cheese

  1. Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix goat cheese, heavy cream, thyme, honey, salt, and black pepper. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
  2. Transfer to a piping bag: Spoon the whipped goat cheese into a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip for easy filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Gougères

  1. Fill the gougères: Slice the tops off the cooled gougères or leave them whole and pipe a generous dollop of whipped goat cheese into each one.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves or drizzle with honey for a polished look.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Presentation: Arrange the gougères on a platter for an elegant appetizer spread.
  2. Serve warm: These puffs are best enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for a few minutes.

Tips for Perfect Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese

1. Use Room-Temperature Eggs

Room-temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the dough, ensuring a smooth texture.

2. Don’t Skip the Cooling

Allowing the dough to cool slightly before adding eggs prevents them from scrambling.

3. Bake Until Crisp

Gougères should be golden and crisp to maintain their shape when filled.

4. Make Ahead

Bake the gougères in advance and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before serving.

Variations of Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese

1. Cheese Swaps

Try Parmesan, aged cheddar, or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

2. Herb Adjustments

Replace Herbs de Provence with rosemary, dill, or parsley to match your theme or preference.

3. Sweet Filling

For a dessert version, fill the gougères with honey-sweetened mascarpone or whipped cream cheese.

4. Bacon and Cheese

Incorporate finely chopped cooked bacon into the dough or as a garnish for a smoky twist.

Serving Suggestions

Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese pair beautifully with:

  • Sparkling Wine: A crisp Prosecco or Champagne enhances the flavors of the gougères.
  • Charcuterie Board: Serve alongside cured meats, pickles, and fresh fruit for an elevated spread.
  • Soup: Pair with a creamy soup, such as tomato bisque or butternut squash, for a delightful starter.

Herb de Provence Gougères with Whipped Goat Cheese are an irresistible appetizer that brings a touch of French culinary elegance to any table. With their crisp exterior, light interior, and creamy, flavorful filling, these gougères are perfect for entertaining or indulging. Easy to make and endlessly versatile, they’re sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more.

Try this recipe today and experience the magic of these savory, herb-infused puffs!