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:
- Brown the breakfast sausage in a saucepan over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, beaten egg, and chopped chives (if using).
- Gently fold the sausage mixture into the dough until evenly distributed.
- Roll the dough mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each puff.
- 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.
- Let the puffs cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving plate. Serve warm.