When it comes to baking, you often think of sweet treats like cupcakes or muffins. But have you ever considered the savory side of muffins? Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are a delightful way to combine cheesy goodness with the fresh, herby flavor of basil and the subtle bite of scallions. Whether you’re serving these muffins as a side dish, a snack, or part of a breakfast spread, they’re sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Savory Cheddar Muffins
These muffins are more than just a baked good; they’re an experience. Imagine biting into a warm muffin with pockets of melted cheddar, the fragrance of basil wafting through each bite, and the satisfying crunch of a golden crust. Perfectly moist and packed with flavor, these muffins are ideal for anyone who loves cheese and herbs. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, even if you’re new to baking.
Ingredients for Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups (15 ounces) |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Sea salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, grated | 3–4 ounces (1 cup) |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 ounce (¼–⅓ cup) |
| Scallions, sliced | ¼ cup |
| Whole or 2% milk | 1 + ¼ cups |
| Sour cream | ¾ cup |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 3 tablespoons |
| Large egg | 1 |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, sea salt, dried basil, and black pepper.
- This forms the base of your muffins and evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices.
3. Add Cheeses and Scallions
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced scallions.
- Toss them lightly to coat with the flour mixture. This helps ensure even distribution throughout the muffins.
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- The sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang, balancing the richness of the cheese.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture.
- Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
6. Fill the Muffin Tin
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ of the way.
- This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
7. Bake the Muffins
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes.
- The tops should turn golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
What Makes These Muffins Special
1. Savory Flavor Profile
Unlike sweet muffins, these savory delights highlight the rich umami of cheese and the fresh taste of herbs.
2. Versatile Uses
Serve them as a side dish for soups, salads, or pasta, or enjoy them on their own as a snack.
3. Simple Yet Elegant
The combination of cheddar, Parmesan, and scallions creates a gourmet feel without requiring advanced baking skills.
Tips for Perfect Savory Muffins
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and vibrant scallions make all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid tough, dense muffins.
- Customize Your Herbs: Swap the dried basil for thyme, rosemary, or dill for a unique twist.
- Check for Doneness: Test the muffins with a toothpick to ensure they’re fully baked.
Flavor Variations
1. Add Protein
Incorporate cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a heartier muffin.
2. Spice It Up
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
3. Experiment with Cheeses
Try swapping cheddar for Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack to change the flavor profile.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- With Soup: Serve alongside creamy tomato soup or a hearty potato soup.
- At Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a savory morning meal.
- As a Snack: Enjoy with a dollop of cream cheese or butter for an indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Storage
- Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
2. Freezing
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating
- Warm muffins in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a healthier yet fluffy result.
2. Can I make mini muffins?
Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to 12–15 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
3. How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?
Use nonstick spray, butter, or paper liners to prevent sticking.
4. Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, but the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
5. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in this recipe.
6. Can I add vegetables to the batter?
Shredded zucchini or finely chopped spinach are excellent additions for extra nutrition.
Conclusion: Bake Your Savory Cheddar Muffins Today!
Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are the perfect blend of cheesy, herby, and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a casual snack or a formal meal, these muffins are sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, there’s no reason not to try them. So, grab your mixing bowls and preheat your oven—you’re in for a treat!
Print
Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions arefluffy, cheesy muffins packed with the flavors of sharp cheddar, Parmesan,scallions, and basil. They are a great side dish or snack for any time of day.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (15 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 3–4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated to yield 1 cup)
- ¼ cup sliced scallions
- 1 + ¼ cups whole or 2% milk
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted and allowed to cool slightly)
- 1 large egg
- 1 ounce Parmesan cheese (1/4–1/3 cup coarsely grated)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, sea salt, dried basil, and black pepper.
- Add cheeses and scallions: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced scallions. Toss gently to coat them in the flour mixture.
- Prepare the wet ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet mixture into it. Stir gently with a spatula until the batter just comes together, being careful not to overmix.
- Fill the muffin tin: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 of the way.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- Substitutions: Plain Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream.
- Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Customizations: Add cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American