Exactly what is a soufflé? Learn about this spongy, fluffy, and delicate dish that is a mystery to many who have never tried it.

What is a Soufflé?

A soufflé is an entrée or dessert that relies on egg whites to expand and puff into the iconic, fluffy final product we think of.

Fun and Interesting Facts About the Soufflé

Soufflé is a derivative of the French verb souffler, which means “to blow,” “to puff,” or “to inflate.”
If the egg whites are not properly whipped to create the necessary air bubbles, the delicious base made with the egg yolks cannot be enjoyed.
Though the famously tricky-to-make dish requires eggs, dairy plays an important role in its success.
Souffles are often prepared using butter, milk, and flour as a base mixed with egg whites. This base is important, as a soufflé should be slightly runny when opened and, of course, with cheese.

What is a Cheese Soufflé

Now, step up your flavor game with a cheese soufflé. While we may think first of sweet souffles for dessert, especially with popular trends like soufflé pancakes, savory souffles are also an option for dinner. Cheese, mainly Parmesan or Gruyère, and herbs are often added to the base of savory souffles. For a sweet soufflé, cream is often included, along with perhaps a scoop of ice cream to pair with the treat.

Baked in a ramekin or special soufflé dish, butter or even a butter, breadcrumb, and parmesan combination may be used along the sides of the dish so the soufflé can easily rise. Cheese manages to appear throughout the process of making a savory soufflé.

Cheese Makes Everything Tastier

Cheese plays such a big part in savory souffles that cheese souffles are the most popular variation. Cheese soufflés can be served with a side salad or a bowl of soup as a light meal. If you prepare your own soufflé, just make sure to serve it quickly for the best experience. Cheesy food will deflate if prepared ahead of time.

Q: What does cheese have to do with souffles?
A: Cheese is a key ingredient in many savory souffles, adding flavor, richness, and helping create the slightly runny, creamy center that makes a cheese soufflé so satisfying.

Q: How is a cheese soufflé different from a sweet soufflé?
A: A cheese soufflé uses a base of butter, milk, flour, egg yolks, and savory cheeses like Parmesan or Gruyère, while sweet soufflés often include cream and sugar and are served as desserts.

Q: Why is dairy important for making a good soufflé?
A: Dairy ingredients like butter, milk, and cheese help build the structure, texture, and flavor of a soufflé, allowing it to rise properly while staying soft and creamy inside.

What is a soufflé to many people? A pillowy delight! Next time you see souffles on the menu for a special dinner, remember how dairy helps souffles rise to the occasion.