Zook'S Puffers(Ham And Cheese Puffs)
Ham and cheese profiteroles with a golden, crispy exterior and savory filling, perfect as appetizers or accompaniments for soups and salads, appealing to cheese and ham lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a large cookie sheet.
- In a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, heat water and butter until butter melts and mixture boils.
- Remove the saucepan from heat.
- With a wooden spoon, vigorously stir in flour and dry mustard all at once until mixture forms a ball and leaves the sides of the pan.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until mixture is smooth.
- Beat in diced cooked ham and shredded cheese (cheese does not need to melt).
- Drop batter using a large spoon and push off with a rubber spatula onto the prepared cookie sheet into 12 mounds, about 2 inches apart, swirling the tops of each.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until golden.
- Serve as bread with soup, salad, or main course. They're great with tomato soup!
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for added flavor. If you don't have dry mustard, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can work in a pinch. Make sure to beat the eggs in thoroughly for a fluffier texture.
Serving Suggestions
These ham and cheese puffs are perfect as a side dish alongside Peggy'S Salad or a hearty tomato soup for a comforting meal. They can also be served as appetizers at parties or gatherings. Pair them with a light salad for a complete lunch or enjoy them as a snack any time of day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their crispiness, unlike microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zook'S Puffers(Ham And Cheese Puffs) contains roughly 197 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 13g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these ham and cheese puffs?
Yes, you can freeze the baked puffs. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F until heated through.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
While shredded cheese like cheddar or Swiss is traditional, you can use any cheese you enjoy. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you could go with mozzarella for a milder taste. Just ensure it’s shredded for easier mixing into the batter.
Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake them ahead and reheat as needed. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they still taste great when reheated.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).