Name: Valentine's Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
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

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Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés are a delightful way to impress your special someone this Valentine’s Day, or any morning that calls for a touch of elegance. With their airy texture and beautiful golden tops, these fluffy soufflés elevate your brunch game. The combination of creamy goat cheese and fragrant herbs wrapped in a light, fluffy base is irresistible. Each bite offers a tender and rich experience that’s hard to surpass, making it a standout dish deserving of any celebratory table.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés

I first tried making soufflés when I wanted something special for a Sunday brunch with friends. The gentle rising of the mixture, the delightful aroma filling my kitchen, and the joyful faces of my guests as they took their first bite—these are memories that stick with you. There’s an inexplicable magic to soufflés that can turn a simple day into an extraordinary one. Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés are not just about great taste; they are a feast for the senses that won’t break the bank or take hours to create. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this lovely, impressive dish that’s sure to be a hit?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep and an hour of cook time, you can whip these up without fuss!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, tangy goat cheese, and a hint of honey makes every bite incredibly delicious.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Their fluffy texture and airy elegance make these soufflés look as sophisticated as they taste.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for brunch, breakfast, or even a romantic dinner—serve them warm for maximum indulgence.
Diet-Friendly Options: Consider using low-fat cheeses for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty richness and helps the soufflés rise perfectly.
½ teaspoon dried lavender – Gives a unique floral note; feel free to omit or substitute with fresh herbs like basil or rosemary if preferred.
½ medium lemon, zested – Brightens flavors and contrasts the richness of the cheeses.
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper – Provides a subtle warmth that balances the creaminess.
3 ounces soft goat cheese – The star of the soufflé; its creamy texture and tang are key.
1 ounce ricotta cheese – Adds moisture and lightness; substitute with cottage cheese for a different flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves – A fragrant herb that complements the goat cheese beautifully.
1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; orange blossom honey is especially lovely here.
3 large eggs, separated – The egg whites whip up airy to create the signature soufflé lift.
¼ cup low-fat milk – Keeps the mixture smooth and creamy; any milk works if you prefer alternatives.
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour – Helps bind the mixture together and provide structure.
Butter for the ramekins – Greasing the ramekins ensures a smooth release of the soufflés.

How to Make Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375˚F. This step is essential to ensure that your soufflés rise beautifully and develop that gorgeous golden color.

Prepare the Ramekins: Smear the insides of your ramekins with butter and then sprinkle grated parmesan on the bottom and sides. This prevents sticking and adds a lovely cheesy crust.

Combine Lavendar and Lemon Zest: Rub the dried lavender between your fingers to break down the buds. In a small bowl, mix the lavender with the lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Set this aromatic blend aside; its fragrance will transport you as it cooks.

Mix the Cheesy Base: In a medium bowl, combine 3 ounces of soft goat cheese, 1 ounce of ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, 1 tablespoon of honey, 3 egg yolks, ¼ cup of low-fat milk, and 2 teaspoons of all-purpose flour. Stir this mixture well until it’s creamy and smooth; it should feel luxurious.

Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, whip the 3 large egg whites until they reach just firm peaks. Don’t overbeat them; you want them airy but still glossy—this ensures the soufflés will rise properly.

Fold in the Egg Whites: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese-yolk mixture in thirds. It’s okay to have lumps in the batter; this is what gives the soufflés their height. Be delicate, as you want to keep that airiness intact!

Assemble the Ramekins: Place the prepared ramekins into a baking dish and carefully fill it halfway up the sides with hot water to create a water bath. Spoon the cheese-egg mixture into the ramekins, filling them about two-thirds full.

Prepare for Baking: Clean any spills on the rims of the ramekins with a cloth or paper towel; this helps them rise without hindrance.

Bake: Pop those beauties into the oven for about 20 minutes or until they’re puffed and golden brown on top. The soufflés should feel firm to touch but jiggle slightly in the center.

Cool and Serve: Let the soufflés cool for about 15 minutes in the ramekins; they’ll naturally pull away from the sides as they cool. Run a knife around the edges before gently turning them upside down or serve them right in the ramekins for a charming presentation.

Serving Suggestion: These soufflés are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a small, fresh salad of your choosing enhances the overall meal experience.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze soufflés for up to three months. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350˚F for about 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that soufflés are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, as freezing and reheating may affect their texture slightly.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overbeating the egg whites; they should be whipped just until firm peaks form. Over-whipping makes them difficult to fold in without deflating.
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for easier whipping and better volume.
Timing is crucial; serve immediately after baking for the best texture. If you have to let them cool, reheat them gently to bring back the fluffiness.
If using fresh thyme, finely chop the leaves to distribute their flavor evenly in the mixture.
Experiment with different cheeses or herbs based on your taste preference—this recipe is versatile!

These Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés shine as an elegant dish for special occasions, making them a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. The blend of ingredients creates flavors that are rich yet balanced, making each bite a delightful experience. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients or serving styles to make it your own. You might just find your new favorite brunch staple!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make soufflés ahead of time?

Making the soufflé mixture ahead of time is possible, but the egg whites should be whipped just before baking to ensure they retain their volume. You can prepare the cheese-yolk mixture, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to bake, fold in the whipped egg whites and bake immediately.

What if I don’t have ramekins?

No ramekins? No problem! You can use any oven-safe dish like small baking cups or a large casserole dish. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger dishes may require more time to cook through.

How do soufflés differ from other baked dishes?

Soufflés are distinguished by their light and puffy texture, achieved by incorporating whipped egg whites into the mixture. This technique makes them different from denser baked dishes like quiches or frittatas, which rely on a solid mass for structure. The result is a beautifully airy dish that feels elegant and luxurious.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While goat cheese is the star here, feel free to mix it with other types of cheese like feta, cream cheese, or even sharper cheeses for different flavor profiles. Just keep in mind that it may affect the overall texture and taste, so adjust seasoning accordingly.