Instructions:
Prepare the dough:
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once the butter is melted, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes.
Add the eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the dough is smooth and glossy. This can be done by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
Stir in the shredded cheese, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until well combined.
Preheat the air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
Shape and cook the puffs:
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough into the air fryer basket, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for expansion.
Air fry the cheese puffs at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
Cool and serve:
Remove the cheese puffs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
Serve warm, or let them cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your homemade air fryer cheese puffs with their crispy exterior and cheesy, tender interior!
