Gruyère Cheese Puffs

Preheat the oven to 400°. Line 2 large, rimmed baking sheets with parchment.

In a medium saucepan, combine the water with the butter and salt and bring to a boil over moderate heat. Reduce the heat to low, add the flour all at once and beat with a wooden spoon until the batter is smooth and pulls away from the side of the pan. Beat for 1 minute longer over the heat to dry out the batter. Remove from the heat and let the batter cool for 5 minutes. Beat in 1 egg at a time, beating well between additions. Stir in the cheese and pepper.

Drop tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for about 30 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Transfer to a rack to cool. Serve warm or at room temperature.