Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Indulging in a lovely brunch with friends or your sweetheart is a date worth savoring, and nothing makes the occasion feel more special than a beautifully puffed soufflé. These Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. They feature a delightful blend of creamy goat cheese, aromatic thyme, and a hint of floral lavender that will enchant your taste buds. Imagine taking a bite – the airy texture combined with the rich flavors will have you swooning, making it a cherished dish for every brunch gathering.
Table of Contents
This recipe isn’t just for seasoned chefs; it’s approachable enough for anyone who wants to impress. Each fluffy soufflé embodies sophistication while being surprisingly easy to make. With minimal fuss and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that rivals those served in high-end restaurants. Trust me, once you serve these soufflés, your brunch game will reach a whole new level. I can’t wait for you to try these delightful creations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Prepping these soufflés takes just 20 minutes, making them ideal for a last-minute brunch idea.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of goat cheese, thyme, and a touch of lavender provides a unique flavor profile that’s creamy and comforting.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Each soufflé rises to fluffy perfection, creating a picturesque dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
- Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a cozy morning meal, a holiday brunch, or a romantic dinner, these soufflés fit any occasion beautifully.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to adjust the cheeses; with gluten-free flour, this recipe can be tailored to accommodate dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a savory depth to your soufflé; sprinkle some on your ramekins for extra flavor and a golden finish.
- ½ teaspoon dried lavender: Provides a unique floral note; rub it between your fingers to release its aroma before adding.
- ½ medium lemon, zested: Brightens the dish with citrus notes; fresh lemon zest is recommended for best results.
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a mild heat to balance the creaminess of the cheese.
- 3 ounces soft goat cheese: The star of the dish; its tangy, creamy texture makes the soufflé luscious.
- 1 ounce ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess without being overwhelming; you could substitute with cream cheese if desired.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Imparts a fresh, earthy flavor; use more or less according to your liking.
- 1 tablespoon honey (orange blossom recommended): Adds a hint of sweetness; feel free to adjust if preferred.
- 3 large eggs (separated): Yolks add richness, while whipped whites provide necessary lift; they should be at room temperature for best results.
- ¼ cup low-fat milk: Helps bring together the ingredients; whole milk can also work if you prefer.
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour: Provides necessary structure; gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative.
- Butter for the ramekins: Ensures an easy release; use unsalted butter for better control over the salt levels.
How to Make Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures even baking and a beautifully risen soufflé.
Prepare Ramekins: Butter the ramekins thoroughly, then sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the grated Parmesan cheese on the bottoms and sides. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a delicious cheesy crust.
Crush Lavender: In a small bowl, rub the dried lavender between your fingers until it’s a finer texture. Combine it with the lemon zest, remaining 1 tablespoon of Parmesan, salt, and pepper. This fragrant mixture will infuse your soufflés with delightful flavor.
Mix the Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, stir together the goat cheese, ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan, thyme, honey, egg yolks, milk, and flour. Blend them until smooth; it’s perfectly fine if it looks a bit chunky — you want those bits to help provide texture.
Whip Egg Whites: In a clean small bowl, whip the egg whites until you reach a firm peak — just be careful not to over-beat them. They should hold their shape without being entirely dry, which is crucial for a good rise.
Fold and Combine: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese-yolk mixture in three additions. Don’t worry about getting a perfectly smooth batter; some lumps from the egg whites will keep your soufflés fluffy and airy.
Prepare the Water Bath: Place the prepared ramekins into a larger baking dish or a roasting pan. Fill it with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This steam bath helps the soufflés cook evenly and prevents them from drying out.
Fill Ramekins: Carefully spoon the cheese-egg mixture into the ramekins until they are about two-thirds full. Be mindful of any bubbles trapped in your mixture, as those will help with rising.
Bake: Bake the soufflés for 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and feel firm when lightly touched. The tops should be puffed and enticingly fragrant, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the soufflés cool in their ramekins for 15 minutes. Although they may collapse slightly — this is normal! Run a knife around the edges and gently turn the ramekins to release. You can serve them warm right out of the ramekins or unmold them for a show-stopping presentation alongside a fresh salad.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers at room temperature for about 2 hours if they’re still warm, or in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze them (in airtight containers) for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed throughout – around 15 minutes works well. Just note that while freezing might alter their fluffiness slightly, they’ll still be delicious!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the egg whites, handle the mixture gently to preserve the airiness; overmixing can lead to dense soufflés.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and cheeses helps incorporate air better, leading to higher soufflés.
- Timing is Key: Try to serve the soufflés right after baking; they are best enjoyed when warm and fluffy.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Fresh thyme and high-quality goat cheese can elevate the flavor significantly; don’t skimp on these.
- Make-ahead Option: You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just fold in the whipped egg whites right before baking!
There’s something incredibly rewarding about crafting a beautiful dish that not only looks great but tastes as spectacular as these Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés do. Elevating any brunch, they serve a dual purpose: warming hearts and filling bellies. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients, perhaps try different herbs or cheeses, and even pair it with a fresh salad or a light soup.
Enjoy sharing these soufflés with loved ones. Their delightfully fluffy texture and delicious flavor are bound to spark joy at your brunch table.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use other cheeses besides goat cheese?
Absolutely! While goat cheese gives these soufflés a distinct flavor, you could use cream cheese, ricotta, or even a blend of various soft cheeses. Just remember to maintain the creaminess that the original recipe calls for.
How do I prevent my soufflés from sinking?
The key to maintaining height is to carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese mixture without overmixing. Even small lumps help provide that airy texture. Also, avoid opening the oven door while baking.
Can I prepare the soufflé mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just make sure to fold in the whipped egg whites right before baking for the best rise.
What can I serve with my soufflés?
These delightful soufflés pair wonderfully with a light salad, fresh fruit, or even a small serving of garlic toast. The options are endless — create a brunch spread that you and your guests will love!
PrintMore Breakfast Recipes
- Peanut Butter Brownie Baked Oatmeal
- Homemade Granola
- Mini Frittata Muffins with Dill
- Valentine’s Brunch Croissant Bake
- Simple Fruit & Yogurt Parfaits with Granola (Customizable)
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés are a delightful blend of soft goat cheese, lavender, and thyme, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch moment! Irresistible flavor with simple prep makes these soufflés a must-try for a homemade treat.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese, divided, plus more for sprinkling on the ramekins
- ½ teaspoon dried lavender
- ½ medium lemon, zested
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 ounces soft goat cheese
- 1 ounce ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey (orange blossom honey recommended)
- 3 large eggs, separated
- ¼ cup low-fat milk
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- butter for the ramekins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375˚ F. Butter the ramekins and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese inside. Set aside.
- Crush the dried lavender to a powder and mix it with lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine goat cheese, ricotta, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan, thyme, honey, egg yolks, milk, and flour. Stir well.
- In a separate small bowl, whip the egg whites until firm peaks form, being careful not to over-whip. Fold the egg whites in thirds into the cheese-yolk mixture until just combined, leaving some lumps for the soufflé texture.
- Place ramekins in a baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Spoon the cheese mixture into ramekins, filling them two-thirds full.
- Clean the sides of the ramekins with a paper towel to ensure the soufflés rise evenly.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the tops are browned and firm. Let cool in ramekins for 15 minutes; they will collapse slightly.
- Serve warm with a small salad.
Notes
For best results, use fresh ingredients like thyme for enhanced flavor.
Be gentle when folding the egg whites into the mixture to maintain fluffiness.
These soufflés are best served immediately but can also be enjoyed right from the ramekins.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 soufflé
- Calories: 261
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
