Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a beautifully baked soufflé, and these Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés are the perfect dish to impress that special someone. They’re light, fluffy, and delicately infused with flavors like fresh herbs and a hint of lavender. With a slightly crispy exterior giving way to a creamy center, each mouthful is a delightful treat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch for your beloved or looking to elevate your breakfast game, these soufflés bring elegance and taste without the fuss.
Table of Contents
I first stumbled upon a similar recipe during a cozy brunch with friends, and watching their delighted reactions as they savored each bite was an unforgettable moment. It felt like a light bulb moment where I realized that breakfast could, indeed, be more than just toast and coffee. Now, I can’t help but bring them out for special occasions, especially Valentine’s Day, when love is in the air, and good food makes it even sweeter. I invite you to share this culinary experience with your loved ones – they’re bound to become a new favorite in your brunch repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Prep and baking take about 75 minutes, making it a manageable romantic brunch option.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of goat cheese, lavender, and fresh thyme creates a unique and savory taste.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: These soufflés rise beautifully and make a stunning presentation each time.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for a romantic breakfast in bed, a special brunch, or a gathering with friends.
- Diet-Friendly Options: With simple substitutions, these soufflés can be tailored for gluten-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty depth to the soufflés; you can substitute with pecorino for a sharper taste.
- ½ teaspoon dried lavender: Provides a floral note; if unavailable, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be used.
- ½ medium lemon, zested: Adds brightness; ensure you’re using fresh lemon for the best flavor.
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor; sea salt works if that’s what you have.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a touch of heat; adjust to taste.
- 3 ounces soft goat cheese: The star ingredient, lending creaminess and a tangy flavor; cream cheese works as a substitute but offers a different taste.
- 1 ounce ricotta cheese: Adds richness; feel free to replace it with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Complements the cheese beautifully; rosemary or dill can also work if you prefer something different.
- 1 tablespoon honey (I used orange blossom honey): Balances the tartness of the cheese; maple syrup can be a good alternative.
- 3 large eggs, separated: The key to lift and fluffiness; make sure they’re at room temperature for easier whipping.
- ¼ cup low-fat milk: Adds moisture; whole milk can be used for a richer flavor.
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the mixture; gluten-free flour can be substituted if needed.
- Butter for the ramekins: Prevents sticking; using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness.
How to Make Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375˚F. This ensures an evenly baked soufflé.
Prepare the ramekins: Generously butter your ramekins and sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese on the bottoms and around the sides. This will not only add flavor but also help the soufflés rise beautifully without sticking.
Mix the lavender and zest: Rub the dried lavender between your fingers to break it down. In a small bowl, combine this with lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. The fragrant aroma of lavender mingling with lemon zest creates an enticing mix.
Combine cheese and yolks: In a medium bowl, blend together the goat cheese, ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan, fresh thyme leaves, honey, egg yolks, milk, and flour. Stir until well combined, creating a thick and creamy mixture that showcases wonderful flavors.
Whip the egg whites: In a separate bowl, whip the 3 large eggs whites until they reach a firm peak. Be careful not to over-whip, as this can make folding more challenging later. The goal is to maintain some lovely lumps of egg whites for that fluffy texture.
Fold together: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese-yolk mixture in thirds. Your mixture should have visible chunks of white; this is perfect! Overfolding can lead to a denser soufflé, and we want them light and airy.
Prepare the baking dish: Position your prepared ramekins in a baking dish and fill it with hot water until it reaches halfway up their sides. This water bath helps create a gentle steaming environment, ensuring the soufflés cook evenly.
Fill and clean: Spoon the soufflé mixture into the ramekins until they are about two-thirds full. For the best rise, wipe down the edges and rims of the ramekins with a paper towel to remove any excess mixture.
Bake to perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until the tops are golden and the soufflés are puffed. They should feel firm to the touch.
Cool and serve: After baking, let the soufflés cool in their ramekins for about 15 minutes. They will slightly collapse as they cool, so don’t be alarmed! You can run a knife around the edges and flip the ramekins over to release the soufflés or serve them directly in the ramekins with a light salad.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover soufflés, allow them to cool completely and then cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just wrap each soufflé in foil and then place them in a sealed freezer bag. When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the soufflés for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. The texture may change slightly, but warming them returns some of their fluffiness.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for better whipping.
- Avoid overmixing when folding in egg whites to maintain lightness.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; dried herbs can lose their potency.
- If your soufflé doesn’t rise as much, double-check your egg whites were whipped properly.
- Experiment with different herbs; parsley or a mix can add a delightful touch!
- Consider assembling the mixture ahead of time and baking it just before serving for a fresh taste.
Prepare to wow your loved ones with these exquisite Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés! They blend elegance with simplicity, making them a delightful addition to your morning celebrations or any special occasion. Don’t hesitate to explore different herb combinations or toppings to elevate your experience. You might find a personal favorite twist for your brunch table!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these soufflés in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to whip the egg whites just before baking to ensure maximum fluffiness and rise.
What if I can’t find goat cheese?
No problem! If you’re unable to find goat cheese, you can use a soft cream cheese or even ricotta. It will change the flavor slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Are these soufflés gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adjust this recipe to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to select a 1:1 baking mix for best results.
How do I know when the soufflés are done?
The soufflés should be golden brown on top and feel firm to touch. You can also do the toothpick test — insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
Now, gather your ingredients and start crafting these scrumptious, cloud-like creations. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the love!
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📖 Recipe Card
Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: No Data
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Description
These Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés offer a delightful mix of creamy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and a touch of honey. Easy to prepare, they are ideal for a special breakfast or brunch occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese
- 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
- 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 them. Set aside.
- Rub the dried lavender into a powder and mix with lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a small bowl; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, blend together goat cheese, ricotta, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, thyme, honey, egg yolks, milk, and flour until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whip the egg whites to firm peaks, then fold into the cheese-yolk mixture in thirds. The mixture will remain lumpy.
- Place the ramekins in a baking dish and fill with hot water halfway up the sides. Spoon the mixture into the ramekins, filling them two-thirds full.
- Wipe the edges of the ramekins with a towel to ensure the soufflés rise evenly.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until tops are browned and firm. Let cool in the ramekins for 15 minutes, then gently run a knife around the edges and invert.
- Serve the soufflés warm, optionally paired with a small salad.
Notes
For a flavorful twist, consider adding other herbs like rosemary or chives.
Ensure egg whites are not over-whipped for the best soufflé rise.
If you prefer, serve soufflés directly in ramekins for easier serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 soufflé
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
