Mini Goat Cheese Soufflés

Name: Mini Goat Cheese Soufflés
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk; 3 large eggs, separated; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these mini goat cheese soufflés whenever I want to impress my guests with something sophisticated yet simple. The light, airy texture combined with the rich flavor of goat cheese creates a delightful experience. It’s a perfect dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or can be served as an elegant starter. Plus, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow! With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping appetizer that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:10:15.804Z

Making mini goat cheese soufflés has become one of my favorite dinner party traditions. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a luxurious bite that feels much more complex than it actually is. The process of whipping the egg whites to just the right level of fluffiness is crucial; it’s what gives the soufflés their signature rise and lightness. I always find that using room-temperature ingredients helps with the overall texture, making my soufflés even more successful.

I'm continually impressed by how versatile these soufflés can be. While goat cheese is my favorite flavor, I've experimented with incorporating herbs like thyme and rosemary. It’s fascinating to see how these flavors brighten the dish, adding just a hint of freshness that balances the richness. I recommend serving them with a light salad on the side to enhance the dining experience further.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy, airy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly balanced flavor of tangy goat cheese
Ideal for impressing guests at gatherings
Simple ingredients yield impressive results

      

The Magic of Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is the star ingredient in this soufflé, bringing a distinct tang that sets it apart from traditional cheese options. Its creamy texture allows it to melt seamlessly into the soufflé base, creating an incredibly rich flavor. When choosing goat cheese, look for a fresh variety rather than aged ones, as a fresher cheese will provide a smoother blend. Also, consider mixing in herbs or spices into the cheese for additional flavor profiles tailored to your taste.

While making the cheese mixture, the key is to keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the flour. If you notice it browning too quickly, lower the heat and continue cooking until you achieve a light, golden color. This technique ensures a smooth base that won’t develop a grainy texture, allowing the soufflés to rise beautifully during baking.

Mastering Egg Whites

Whipping egg whites to the perfect stiff peak is essential for achieving the soufflé's airy texture. Make sure your bowl and beaters are completely clean; any trace of fat can prevent the whites from whipping up properly. If you’re unsure, a quick tip is to add a few drops of lemon juice or a pinch of cream of tartar while whipping; these will help stabilize the egg whites and create that magnificent lift you want.

When folding the egg whites into the cheese mixture, do so gently to maintain the volume you've created. Use a spatula to cut down through the mixture and lift it over itself—it should remain light and fluffy throughout the process. Avoid over-mixing, as this can deflate the air pockets and lead to dense soufflés instead of the desired lightness.

Ingredients

For the Soufflés

4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
3 large eggs, separated
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Make sure to serve these soufflés immediately out of the oven for the best experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Ramekins

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease four ramekins with butter and dust with flour, shaking out the excess. Set aside.

Make the Cheese Mixture

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the goat cheese until melted; season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold one-third of the egg whites into the cheese mixture to lighten it, then fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.

Bake the Soufflés

Spoon the mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, until puffed and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy these delightful mini soufflés while they are still warm!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before whipping them.

Serving Suggestions

These mini goat cheese soufflés are best served right out of the oven, as they tend to deflate quickly once removed from the heat. To elevate your serving presentation, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. They pair wonderfully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the soufflés perfectly.

You can also adapt these soufflés to be served as part of a brunch spread. Consider offering small bites alongside them, such as smoked salmon or a selection of fresh fruits. This way, your guests can savor each mouthful while enjoying an elegant dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the soufflés in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that they will lose some of their airy texture upon reheating. To revitalize them, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and warm them gently for about 10 minutes, just until heated through—this will help recreate some of that fluffiness.

For those who love to plan ahead, consider assembling the cheese mixture and egg whites separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and fold them together just before baking. This way, you can serve freshly baked soufflés with minimal prep on your gathering day while ensuring that they maintain their delightful texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these soufflés in advance?

It's best to serve soufflés fresh out of the oven, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and whip the egg whites just before baking.

→ What can I substitute for goat cheese?

You can use cream cheese or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile, although it will change the essence of the dish.

→ How do I know when the soufflés are done?

They are done when they are puffed up, lightly golden on top, and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.

→ Can I add vegetables to the soufflés?

Yes, finely chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms can be folded in with the cheese mixture for added flavor and texture.