Cheddar Cheese Muffins
Cheddar cheese muffins are savory, cheesy treats with a tender crumb, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacking. Their rich flavor and moist texture appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease muffin cups or line with paper or foil baking cups.
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the grated Cheddar cheese to the flour mixture.
- Toss the flour and cheese with your fingers to distribute the cheese evenly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and mustard until well combined.
- Whisk in the milk until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the flour mixture.
- Gently fold the ingredients together with a rubber spatula until just moistened.
- Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin cups.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are springy to the touch in the center.
- Allow to cool on a rack before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try incorporating herbs like chives or thyme for added flavor. If you're out of Cheddar, any sharp cheese works well as a substitute. You can also replace the milk with buttermilk for a richer taste. Make sure not to overmix the batter; it should be just moistened to keep the muffins tender. For a heartier option, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these muffins warm with a dollop of butter or alongside a bowl of soup, such as Southern Vegetable Soup, for a comforting meal. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed as a snack with a side of mustard for dipping. Consider serving them at brunch or as a savory addition to your breakfast table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Cheese Muffins contains roughly 498 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of calcium (16% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 855mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the muffins ahead, let them cool, and freeze them. Reheat as needed for fresh-tasting muffins.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though it may result in denser muffins. If you're looking for gluten-free options, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum to help with texture. Just be mindful that the baking time may vary slightly.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
The muffins are done when they are springy to the touch in the center, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy muffins!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).