Description
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!
Ingredients
(Makes 12–16 duchess swirls)
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2 lbs (about 900g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1/4 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
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3 large egg yolks
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds a warm touch)
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Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor
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1 egg yolk + 1 tsp water for egg wash (optional, for golden tops)
Instructions
🥣 1. Cook the potatoes:
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Place peeled, chopped potatoes in a pot of cold salted water.
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Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
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Drain well and return to the pot to dry out briefly over low heat (1–2 minutes).
🍯 2. Mash & mix:
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Mash the potatoes until very smooth (use a ricer or food mill for best texture).
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Stir in butter, cream, egg yolks, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (plus Parmesan if using).
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The mixture should be thick, smooth, and pipeable — not runny.
🍥 3. Pipe the swirls:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Spoon the potato mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
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Pipe elegant little swirls or rosettes onto the baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
🥚 4. Brush & bake:
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Lightly brush each swirl with egg wash for that golden finish.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown.
Notes
✔️ 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.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min