Cheese Muffins Recipe
If there’s one baked treat that wraps comfort, flavor, and ease in a neat package, it’s the Cheese Muffins Recipe we’ve got here. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy muffin bursting with sharp cheddar and a whisper of garlic, all crowned with the freshness of chives. This recipe is a perfect go-to whether you’re looking to brighten up breakfast, complement a hearty soup, or just satisfy that savory craving. The beauty lies in its simplicity and versatility, making these muffins a beloved favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely key to achieving that dreamy texture and rich flavor. Each component plays a role in delivering the balance of softness, cheesiness, and just the right amount of savory punch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and perfect crumb for the muffins.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise, keeping them light and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds a subtle depth and savory warmth without overpowering.
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that delivers bold flavor and gooey goodness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Contributes to richness and a soft crumb.
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional): Provide a fresh, slightly oniony contrast to the sharp cheese.
How to Make Cheese Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it reaches the perfect baking temperature. Line your 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking—this little prep step makes your life so much easier when it’s time to enjoy those golden muffins.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and optional garlic powder. This step is crucial because you want those leavening agents and seasoning evenly distributed so every bite is perfectly balanced and rises beautifully.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Chives
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and chopped chives if you’re using them. This combination not only adds bursts of savory flavor but also beautiful color and texture throughout the muffins.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and melted butter. This mixture gives your muffins richness and moisture, ensuring a tender crumb that’s soft and satisfying.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—those little lumps are okay! Overworking the batter can make the muffins tough and dense instead of light and fluffy.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Pop them in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the muffin tops turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before diving in.
How to Serve Cheese Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or a light dusting of extra shredded cheese on top right after baking to add a pop of color and intensified flavor that makes the presentation irresistible.
Side Dishes
These muffins are a perfect match for warm soups like tomato bisque or creamy potato leek. They also pair wonderfully with crisp salads or served alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these cheese muffins into mini sliders by slicing them in half and filling with crispy bacon, a slice of tomato, and a smear of avocado. They also make for excellent portable snacks on picnics or potlucks when wrapped in parchment paper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This approach preserves their texture while keeping them ready to enjoy without reheating if you like them at room temp.
Freezing
For longer storage, these cheese muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They last up to two months, so you can always have a savory delight ready whenever you crave it.
Reheating
To warm frozen or refrigerated muffins, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20-30 seconds until heated through. This quick step brings back their fresh-baked softness and melty cheese goodness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for this Cheese Muffins Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Parmesan, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for varied flavor profiles. Just adjust the quantity to keep the balance right.
Are these muffins suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze very well. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping, and they’ll maintain their delicious taste and texture for up to two months.
What if I don’t have fresh chives or green onions?
No worries! The chives add brightness but are optional. You can replace them with dried herbs like parsley or leave them out entirely without losing the essence of the Cheese Muffins Recipe.
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
To adapt this Cheese Muffins Recipe for dairy-free diets, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with a dairy-free spread. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.
How do I prevent the muffins from becoming dry?
The key is not to overmix the batter and to measure your ingredients carefully. Also, avoid overbaking by checking them closely around the 18-minute mark; a toothpick should come out clean but with no dry crumbs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about homemade cheese muffins, and this Cheese Muffins Recipe makes achieving that easy, delicious, and fun. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these muffins will quickly become a favorite go-to. Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to some warm, cheesy goodness — you really can’t go wrong!
Print
Cheese Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These savory cheese muffins are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or side dish. Made with sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of garlic powder for extra flavor, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or alongside soups and salads. The moist and tender texture combined with cheesy goodness makes them an irresistible treat that can be enjoyed warm or frozen for later.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Cheese and Herbs
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and optional garlic powder until well combined.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with the chopped chives or green onions if you are using them, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dry mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the two eggs, whole milk, and melted butter until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the muffins stay tender.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the muffin tops turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool slightly in the tin before removing to a wire rack or serving warm.
Notes
- Try blending in different cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Serve these muffins warm—they pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or as part of a breakfast spread.
- They freeze well for up to two months; reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
