When it comes to muffins, we often think of sweet treats filled with berries or chocolate. However, savory muffins offer a unique and delightful twist that can elevate your breakfast or snack game. These Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs, making them a hit at any table. Packed with sharp cheddar, fresh scallions, and the subtle hints of basil, these muffins are a must-try for anyone looking to diversify their baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (15 ounces)
- 1 TBSP baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 3-4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, grated to yield 1 cup
- ¼ cup sliced scallions
- 1 + ¼ cups whole or 2% milk
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 3 TBSP unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 large egg
- 1 ounce of Parmesan cheese, roughly grated to make 1/4-1/3 cup
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, sea salt, dried basil, and black pepper. Make sure the ingredients are well combined for an even distribution of flavors.
- Add Cheese and Scallions: Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and sliced scallions, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture. This will help the cheese and scallions stay suspended in the batter during baking.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, melted butter, and egg until smooth. The mixture should be well blended, creating a creamy base for the muffin batter.
- Form the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy to ensure light and fluffy muffins.
- Fill and Top: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Sprinkle the coarsely grated Parmesan cheese on top of each muffin for an extra layer of flavor and a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake: Put the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool entirely.
Conclusion:
These Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are a fantastic addition to any meal, whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a side with soup, or as a savory snack. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese, the fresh bite of scallions, and the aromatic hint of basil create a harmonious flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Easy to make and wonderfully versatile, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation. Enjoy them warm from the oven or at room temperature for a delightful taste of savory goodness.