Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 8 ounces (227g) bulk breakfast sausage, such as Jimmy Dean
  • 4 ounces (113g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream
  • Optional: Everything Bagel Seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Brown the breakfast sausage in a saucepan over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Let cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and well combined.
  3. Gradually add the flour, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten egg, and chopped chives (if using).
  5. Gently fold the sausage mixture into the dough until evenly distributed.
  6. Roll the dough mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each puff.
  7. Brush the tops of the puffs with milk or cream, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning (if using). Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Let the puffs cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving plate. Serve warm.