Indulge guilt-free with these Heart-Healthy Cheese Puffs, a wholesome twist on the classic snack! Made with nutrient-rich whole wheat flour, heart-smart olive oil, and a blend of low-fat cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, these golden bites are crispy on the outside, yet light and airy on the inside. Flavored with a hint of garlic, fresh parsley, and a touch of black pepper, they deliver irresistible savory goodness in every bite. Quick to prepare in under 40 minutes, these baked cheese puffs are a delicious, low-calorie alternative to traditional fried snacks. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or even a midday treat, they pair wonderfully with your favorite dipsβor enjoy them solo for a satisfying snack that's kind to your heart and your taste buds.
Preheat your oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium saucepan, combine water, olive oil, and salt, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately add the whole wheat flour, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
Return the saucepan to low heat and stir the dough for about 1-2 minutes to dry it out slightly, then transfer it to a mixing bowl and let cool for a few minutes.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then gradually add them to the dough, stirring vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly sticky.
Add the grated low-fat cheddar, parmesan cheese, baking powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and fresh parsley. Combine until evenly distributed.
Using a tablespoon or a pastry bag with a round tip, drop small mounds of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until puffs are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Remove from the oven and let the cheese puffs cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.
Calories |
1456 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 82.4 g | 106% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.7 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 432 mg | 144% | |
| Sodium | 2320 mg | 101% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 96.3 g | 35% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.3 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.9 g | ||
| Protein | 73.6 g | 147% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.7 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 1156 mg | 89% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 708 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.