Cupcake cheese muffins

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Savory & Cheesy : Packed with melty cheese and savory goodness in every bite.
2. Adorable Presentation : Baked in a muffin tin for a fun, cupcake-inspired shape.
3. Customizable : Add herbs, spices, or mix-ins like bacon or jalapeños for extra flair.
4. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will adore these cheesy, buttery treats.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for brunch, appetizers, snacks, or lunchboxes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes 12 muffins

For the Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp onion powder (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk works best)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter , melted and cooled
• 1 large egg , lightly beaten

Optional Mix-Ins:

• Cooked bacon bits
• Diced jalapeños
• Chopped fresh herbs (like chives, parsley, or thyme)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and beaten egg until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix. The batter will be thick and lumpy.
2. If using optional mix-ins like bacon bits, jalapeños, or herbs, fold them in gently at this stage.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake for 18–20 minutes , or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Why This Recipe Works

• Cheese Magic : A blend of cheddar and Parmesan creates a rich, cheesy flavor with gooey pockets of melted goodness.
• Buttery Base : Melted butter adds richness and ensures a tender crumb.
• Customizable Options : Mix-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or herbs allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste.

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Variations to Try

• Add Bacon : Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spice It Up : Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herb Infusion : Stir in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
• Gluten-Free Option : Substitute gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
• Vegan Version : Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and a flax egg for a vegan-friendly treat.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix : Overmixing can make the muffins dense. Mix until just combined.
• Use Fresh Ingredients : Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.

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Serving Suggestions

• Romantic Touch : Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated Parmesan for elegance.
• Brunch Staple : Serve alongside scrambled eggs, fruit salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
• Party Platter : Pair with other savory bites like mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or cheese boards for variety.

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Final Thoughts

These Cupcake Cheese Muffins are a celebration of savory flavors, cheesy textures, and effortless preparation, offering a treat that feels indulgent yet approachable. With their customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, they’re a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.

Your Turn! Have you ever made savory muffins or experimented with cheesy baked goods? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🧀