Description
These easy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs combine creamy mashed potatoes with melted (plant-based) cheese to create golden, fluffy puffs that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Quick to prepare and customizable with herbs and spices, they make a versatile snack perfect for any occasion, from cozy nights in to party platters.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups smooth and creamy mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded (plant-based) cheese (mozzarella-style or cheddar-style recommended)
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin, agar, carrageenan)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or plant-based butter (for baking and sautéing)
Optional Herbs and Spices
- Chopped chives, parsley, or other fresh herbs to taste
- Optional: finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Start with perfectly cooked and mashed potatoes, ensuring no lumps remain. Allow them to cool slightly before mixing so the cheese does not melt prematurely.
- Mix in the Cheese and Seasonings: Gently fold in the shredded (plant-based) cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), garlic powder, paprika, and any additional chosen spices or herbs. Mix until evenly incorporated for consistent flavor.
- Add Flour and Natural Gelling Agent: Gradually sprinkle the flour and natural gelling agent into the mixture, combining thoroughly to achieve a cohesive yet light dough that is easy to shape.
- Shape the Puffs: Using your hands or a spoon, form small, round puffs that are compact but gentle enough to hold their shape while baking.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the shaped puffs on a parchment-lined baking tray brushed with olive oil or plant-based butter to help achieve a crispy crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown with a crispy exterior.
Notes
- Use warm mashed potatoes for better binding and a smoother mixture.
- Mix gently to preserve a light texture and prevent dense puffs.
- Chill the dough for 20 minutes if shaping is difficult, especially on warm days.
- Make puffs uniform in size to ensure even baking.
- Remove from oven as soon as they turn golden brown to avoid drying out the inside.
- Leftover mashed potatoes are perfect for this recipe and save preparation time.
- For reheating, use an oven or toaster oven at medium heat to restore crispiness; avoid microwave reheating.
- Freeze shaped but unbaked puffs on a tray until firm; then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 puffs
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: mashed potato cheese puffs, plant-based cheese snacks, crispy potato puffs, vegan cheese puffs, easy appetizer, party snacks