Gougeres

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2
   In a saucepan, combine the milk, butter, salt and pepper over medium high heat and bring to a boil.
3. 3
   Remove from the heat and add flour and stir with a wooden spoon, briskly, for about 1 minute to incorporate.
4. 4
   Return to medium high heat and continue stirring until smooth and batter pulls away from sides of pan, about 1 minute.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
6. 6
   Add the cheese and beat until it is incorporated and a slightly soft dough forms.
7. 7
   Drop the dough by the spoonful on the baking sheet, to form a ring (about 10-12 spoonfuls.)
8. 8
   Or place spoonfuls of the mixture 2 inches apart for individual gougeres.
9. 9
   Bake for 10 minutes, reduce heat to 350 degrees F, and continue to bake for 25 minutes, until golden brown and firm to the touch.
10. 10
    Remove from the oven and serve warm.