Published:
Sep 4th 2021
by 
Last updated: Dec 16th 2024
These Trinidad Cheese Puffs are a Caribbean party favorite, beloved for their light, airy texture and rich, creamy cheese filling. Perfect for gatherings, these puffs start with a classic choux pastry, a versatile dough that puffs up beautifully when baked, creating a hollow center ready to be filled. This recipe adds a unique Trinidadian twist by incorporating a cheddar cheese paste that brings a touch of spice and tang, making every bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or bringing a dish to a potluck, these cheese puffs are sure to be a hit!
- Perfect for Entertaining: These cheese puffs are an ideal crowd-pleaser and make for a delightful snack at any gathering.
- Unique Caribbean Flavour: With a flavourful cheese filling, these puffs are infused with the distinct spices and ingredients of Trinidadian cuisine.
- Light and Airy Texture: The choux pastry creates a delicate, airy puff, complementing the creamy cheese paste filling.
- Ensure Proper Piping: Use a star tip to pipe the puffs onto the baking sheet, ensuring even size and shape for consistent baking.
- Avoid Over-mixing: When adding eggs to the dough, add them one at a time to avoid making the mixture too runny.
- Cool Before Filling: Allow the puffs to cool fully before filling them with cheese paste to maintain the best texture.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added to the cheese paste for an aromatic twist.
- Spice Level: Adjust the lime pepper sauce quantity for milder or spicier filling.
Store leftover cheese puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 325°F for 5-7 minutes.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base of the choux pastry, creating a light structure for the puff.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the dough and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
- Water – Combines with butter and flour to create steam, which puffs the dough up as it bakes.
- Large Eggs – Key to binding the dough and providing the airy texture once baked.
- Cheddar Cheese – Adds a sharp, creamy flavor that complements the puff’s delicate texture.
- Mayonnaise – Makes the cheese paste filling creamy and spreadable.
- Mustard – Adds a hint of tang to enhance the savory taste of the filling.
- Lime Pepper Sauce – For optional spice, bringing a unique Trinidadian flavor to the filling.
Can I make these cheese puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the puffs a day in advance. Fill them just before serving to keep them from becoming soggy.
Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, gouda, or even cream cheese work well as substitutes for cheddar.
How to Make Trinidad Cheese Puffs
- Prepare the Choux Pastry: Start by heating butter and water in a pot until the butter melts. Lower the heat, add flour, and stir continuously until the mixture forms a smooth dough. Allow it to cool before gradually adding eggs to achieve a soft, pipeable consistency.
- Pipe and Bake: Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe small circles on a baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until golden and firm. Allow the puffs to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Cheese Filling: Combine grated cheddar, mayonnaise, mustard, black pepper, and optional lime pepper sauce in a bowl until smooth.
- Fill the Puffs: Slice each puff open slightly, then pipe the cheese filling inside. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
250 grams All Purpose Flour
375 ml Water
225 grams Unsalted Butter
4 Large Eggs
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated
75 grams Unsalted Butter
1/4 grams Black Pepper (about a pinch)
5 grams Mustard
50 grams Mayonaise
1/2 Teaspoon Lime Pepper Sauce (Optional)
2 grams Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
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