Duchess Potatoes (Pommes Duchesse) are a classic French side dish made of mashed potatoes enriched with butter, cream, and egg yolks, piped into pretty swirls, and baked until lightly golden. Crispy on the edges, creamy inside — fancy, but totally doable!
(Makes 12–16 duchess swirls)
2 lbs (about 900g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
3 large egg yolks
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds a warm touch)
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water for egg wash (optional, for golden tops)
Place peeled, chopped potatoes in a pot of cold salted water.
Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Drain well and return to the pot to dry out briefly over low heat (1–2 minutes).
Mash the potatoes until very smooth (use a ricer or food mill for best texture).
Stir in butter, cream, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (plus Parmesan if using).
The mixture should be thick, smooth, and pipeable — not runny.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spoon the potato mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
Pipe elegant little swirls or rosettes onto the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
Lightly brush each swirl with egg wash for that golden finish.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown.
✔️ Add roasted garlic, herbs, or cheese for more flavor.
✔️ Want to make ahead? Pipe onto trays, freeze, then store frozen. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes.
✔️ Swap cream for sour cream or cream cheese for a tangy twist.