Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs

Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs are the perfect blend of fluffiness and creaminess, offering a delightful bite-sized treat that’s ideal for any occasion. These little puffs are light and airy, with a rich cream cheese filling that makes them irresistible. Whether you need a sweet snack for an afternoon pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these mini puffs will surely steal the show. Made with simple ingredients and easy to follow steps, you’ll find yourself whipping up batches of these delicious treats time and time again.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs deserve a place in your recipe collection for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a sweet breakfast treat, a light dessert, or even a savory snack. The cream cheese adds a luscious texture that elevates them above ordinary pastry. Second, they are straightforward to make, requiring minimal time and effort. Finally, they lend themselves to creativity; you can add various flavors or toppings to suit your taste, making them a fun project in the kitchen.

Ingredient Rundown

To whip up these delightful puffs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature – This forms the base of the puffs, giving them a rich flavor.
• 1 cup cream cheese, reduced fat or light cream cheese is okay; I used Trader Joe’s spreadable light – This adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The main structure of the puffs, providing the necessary lift.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – This helps the puffs rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• About ¾ cup milk – Adjusts the dough consistency, making it easier to work with.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Electric mixer – To make mixing the butter and cream cheese a breeze.
• Baking sheet – Where you will place your puffs for baking.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Whisk – Useful for mixing dry ingredients.
• Spoon or cookie scoop – For portioning the dough onto the baking sheet.

Build Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your puffs will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the puffs from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter and cream cheese mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Add Milk

Slowly pour in the milk, mixing until the dough is smooth. The consistency should be thick but scoopable. If it’s too dry, add a little more milk, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each puff for expansion during baking.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the puffs are lightly golden and puffed up. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the mini cream cheese puffs from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re in need of alternatives, consider these swaps:

• For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
• Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
• If you prefer a lower-fat version, you can use low-fat cream cheese.
• For a sweeter puff, consider adding a tablespoon of sugar to the dough.

If You’re Curious

If you’re interested in learning more about these Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs, here are some fun facts:

• These puffs can be filled with various flavors, such as fruit preserves or chocolate chips, for added sweetness.
• They can be served as a savory option by adding herbs or spices to the cream cheese filling.
• Experimenting with different types of cream cheese, like chive or garlic, can yield delicious savory puffs.
• These puffs can be made in advance and frozen, making them a convenient snack option.

Prep Ahead & Store

To enjoy these Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs at your convenience, consider the following storage tips:

Once cooled, store the puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Questions People Ask

Can I use different flavors of cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various flavors of cream cheese, like herb, garlic, or even fruit-flavored options for a unique twist.

Can I bake these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them. They taste best when fresh, but reheating them will still yield delightful results.

How do I know when they are done baking?

The puffs should be lightly golden on the outside and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Can I add toppings to the cream cheese puffs?

Definitely! Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of your favorite jam or fruit preserves for an extra touch.

Weekend Projects

Looking for more delightful baking projects? Check out these links for inspiration:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Discover sweet and savory treats!
• Pinch of Yum – Explore a variety of delicious recipes!
• Minimalist Baker – Simple, quick recipes for every occasion!

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge needed, it’s time to dive into making these Soft Baked Mini Cream Cheese Puffs. With their irresistible texture and delightful cream cheese filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of creating these delicious treats. Happy baking!