Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine water and butter and bring it to a boil over medium heat.

Once boiling, add flour and salt all at once. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until a ball forms and comes away from the sides of the pan.

Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

Stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, if using.

Use a teaspoon or a piping bag to drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

Enjoy these cheese puffs warm from the oven for the best experience!