Garlic Cheddar Muffins are savory, flavorful treats that can complement any meal or be enjoyed on their own. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and aromatic garlic gives these muffins a deliciously rich flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a side dish, these muffins are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves cheesy, garlicky goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in cheese and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Cheese alternatives: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
- Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be added to enhance the flavor.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Vegan version: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use non-dairy milk and oil to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat muffins in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use self-raising flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, if you use self-raising flour, omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.
- Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake them in the morning for fresh muffins.
- Can I freeze these muffins? Yes, these muffins freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic? Yes, you can use garlic powder. Replace each clove of garlic with about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- What can I serve these muffins with? These muffins pair well with soups, stews, salads, or even as a snack with some butter.
- Can I make these muffins without cheese? Yes, if you prefer, you can make them without cheese for a more neutral muffin base or add extra herbs and spices.
- How do I know when the muffins are done? The muffins are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Can I add vegetables to these muffins? Yes, you can add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions for extra flavor.
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Can I add bacon to these muffins? Yes, adding crispy bacon bits to the batter will give the muffins an extra savory flavor.
Conclusion
These Garlic Cheddar Muffins are a versatile and flavorful treat that everyone will love. With their cheesy goodness and savory garlic notes, they’re perfect for any meal, whether as a side or a snack. Easy to make and customizable with various ingredients, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.