Savory Gruyère Puffs (Gougères)

1. Preheat Oven and Prep Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare two rimmed baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

2. Create the Dough

In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water, the butter, sea salt, and cayenne pepper to a rolling boil. Add the bread flour all at once, stirring quickly until a dough forms that pulls away from the pot's sides, about 1-2 minutes.

3. Cool the Dough

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and beat with a paddle attachment or a wooden spoon for about 30 seconds to let some steam escape.

4. Incorporate Eggs and Cheese

Whisk in each egg one at a time, ensuring full incorporation before adding the next. Then, fold in the shredded Gruyère cheese.

5. Shape and Top the Gougères

Pipe or spoon 2-teaspoon-sized dollops of dough onto the lined baking sheets, an inch apart, and sprinkle each with Parmesan cheese.

6. Bake the Gougères

Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until puffed, golden, and firm.

7. Serve Warm

Allow the gougères to cool slightly before serving them warm.