Description
Twice-baked cheese soufflé is a French classic with a twist. Light, airy, and full of flavor, it’s an elegant dish that’s easier than it looks.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 eggs (separated)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Cheese and Nut Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons Parmigiano cheese
- 1/4 cup minced roasted nuts
Butter and Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare a 180C (350F) oven and meticulously butter six 180ml ramekins, generously dusting with grated cheese or finely chopped nuts for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Create a smooth roux by melting butter in a saucepan, incorporating flour, and stirring continuously for one minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Gradually introduce milk into the roux, whisking consistently to prevent lumps, and simmer for three minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches a velvety consistency.
- Take the pan off the heat and stir in the Gruyere until fully melted into the sauce.
- Carefully incorporate egg yolks into the cheese mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile.
- In a separate bowl, whip egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff, glossy peaks that hold their shape perfectly.
- Gently introduce a small portion of whipped egg whites into the cheese mixture to temper, then delicately fold in the remaining whites to maintain maximum volume.
- Distribute the souffle mixture evenly among prepared ramekins, placing them in a water bath to ensure even, gentle cooking.
- Bake for 25 minutes at 180C (350F) until the souffles rise and develop a golden exterior.
- Allow souffles to cool completely, potentially refrigerating if preparing in advance.
- For serving, carefully unmold the chilled souffles and return to a 220C (425F) oven for 10 minutes, allowing them to puff dramatically and develop a crisp exterior.
Notes
- Prepare ramekins ahead by thoroughly greasing with butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Maintain consistent whisking when incorporating egg whites to preserve delicate souffle texture and prevent deflation.
- Temperature control is crucial; allow ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing to create smooth, even consistency.
- Consider alternative cheese options like sharp cheddar or fontina for unique flavor variations while maintaining similar melting properties.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 315 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 370 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 210 mg