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 preferred); 3 large eggs (separated); ¼ cup low-fat milk; 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour; butter (for the ramekins)

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When it comes to elegant breakfasts, it’s hard to top a beautifully baked soufflé. Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés encapsulate everything that makes a brunch special: a light, airy texture that practically melts in your mouth, complemented by the robust flavors of goat cheese and fresh herbs. Each soufflé puff is a delicate testament to your culinary efforts, perfect for impressing that special someone at your Valentine’s brunch or simply indulging yourself on a quiet weekend. You might find yourself falling head over heels for this simple yet sophisticated dish!

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 remember the first time I attempted to make soufflés; I was a mix of nervousness and excitement. Would they rise? Would they deflate? To my delight, they turned out light and fluffy—an instant showstopper at the brunch table. Each bite was a warm hug, reminding me that the best meals are those made with love, especially during a special occasion. And let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly rewarding about serving a dish that looks, feels, and tastes like a million bucks without breaking the bank. So why not make these luscious soufflés your go-to for Valentine’s brunch this year?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Prep takes about 20 minutes, and baking only adds another 55.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy goat cheese, aromatic thyme, and fragrant lavender creates a taste that’s both savory and delightful.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These soufflés puff impressively in the oven, turning your brunch into an Instagram-worthy affair.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a fancy brunch-for-dinner situation.
Diet-Friendly Options: Options to adapt the recipe for gluten-free, vegetarian, or lower-calorie diets!

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty richness to your soufflé base, ensuring it has a subtle complexity. Feel free to use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
½ teaspoon dried lavender: Adds a floral note that elevates the dish; if you don’t have dried lavender, dried rosemary can be an interesting substitute.
½ medium lemon, zested: Zest brings brightness and freshness; lemon adds a much-needed balance to the richness of the cheeses.
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor without being overly salty; adjust to taste based on your preference.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy textures.
3 ounces soft goat cheese: Provides creaminess and tang; if you’re not a fan, creamy feta can work as an alternative.
1 ounce ricotta cheese: Lightens the texture of the soufflés; mascarpone can be an acceptable substitute for extra creaminess.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers aromatic, earthy notes; feel free to use oregano or chives if you prefer.
1 tablespoon honey (I used orange blossom honey): Sweetens the mixture just enough to balance flavors; maple syrup works well too!
3 large eggs (separated): The backbone of the soufflé; the yolks create a rich base, while whipped whites provide lift.
¼ cup low-fat milk: Adds moisture; whole milk or cream can be used for a richer texture.
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour: Forms a light structure; for gluten-free options, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Butter for the ramekins: Essential for preventing sticking; a cooking spray can be used as an alternative.

How to Make Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés

Preheat oven: Set the oven to 375°F. Prepare your ramekins by generously smearing each with butter and sprinkling a bit of finely grated Parmesan cheese across the bottoms and sides. This will create a beautiful crust that adds to the soufflé’s aesthetic and flavor.

Blend lavender mixture: In a small bowl, rub the dried lavender between your fingers until it’s a fine powder. Mix in the lemon zest, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. This fragrant blend will dance through your soufflés, bringing them to life!

Combine cheeses: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the goat cheese, ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme leaves, honey, 3 egg yolks, low-fat milk, and all-purpose flour. Stir these ingredients until fully blended and creamy, making sure that the cheeses are well incorporated.

Whip egg whites: Using a clean bowl, whip the egg whites until they reach firm peaks; be careful not to go too far—just until they hold their shape. You want them to be fluffy but not too dry so they can incorporate easily into the cheese mixture.

Fold the mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the cheese-yolk mixture in thirds using a large spatula. It’s okay if the egg whites remain in small lumps as they will help the soufflé rise beautifully!

Create water bath: Place your prepared ramekins in a baking dish, then pour in hot water, filling the dish halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will help maintain a stable temperature while baking and keep the soufflés moist.

Fill ramekins and clean edges: Carefully spoon the mixture into each ramekin, filling only two-thirds full. Pro-tip: wipe the sides with a paper towel to ensure a clean rise without any obstacles.

Bake and cool: Bake for about 20 minutes or until the tops are golden and firm to the touch. After baking, let the soufflés cool in their ramekins for 15 minutes. They’ll naturally pull away from the sides, which is a great sign.

Serve and enjoy: Run a knife around the edges to gently release the soufflés, or serve directly in the ramekins for an even more comforting presentation. Serve warm with a side salad to contrast the rich flavors.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let your soufflés cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for about an hour, but for longer storage, refrigerate for up to three days. If you’re feeling adventurous, freezing is also an option—just be sure to do it properly in a blanched container, and you can relish them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, though keep in mind they may lose a bit of their fluffiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Keep your egg whites at room temperature before whipping; this can help achieve an even fluffier texture.
Don’t overfold the egg whites; it’s okay if you see lumps as they will lighten the entire soufflé.
Check your soufflés a minute or two before the suggested baking time as ovens can vary—look for a puffed, slightly golden top as a fate!
Use the freshest herbs possible for the best flavor impact.
For an extra layer of taste, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.

There’s something irresistibly charming about opening your oven door to reveal a grand puff of a soufflé. You can see the fruits of your labor rise splendidly, promising a heartwarming, flavor-packed experience. Give these Valentine’s Brunch Goat Cheese Soufflés a try—they’re not just a meal but a moment to savor. Enjoy experimenting with your flavors and variations. You never know, you might just stumble upon the next beloved recipe in your brunch repertoire!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make the soufflés in advance?

You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to whip the egg whites right before baking for optimal fluffiness.

What can I serve with these soufflés?

A light salad or some fresh fruit pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the soufflés. Alternatively, you could serve them alongside a simple dressing of balsamic or citrus vinaigrette for contrast.

How do I know when my soufflés are done?

Your soufflés are ready when they are puffed up and golden on top, with a slight jiggle in the center. The texture will firm up as they cool slightly.

Can I substitute the goat cheese?

Yes, if goat cheese isn’t your preference, creamy feta or even ricotta can serve as alternatives. However, keep in mind that this will alter the flavor somewhat!