Oh my goodness, you guys! Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes—Cheese and Herb Muffins. These savory delights have been a staple in my kitchen for as long as I can remember, and they always leave my family and friends raving about them.
I remember the first time I baked them; it was during a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the smell of cheese melting and herbs wafting through my house made everyone come running to the kitchen. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a side with your favorite soup! Honestly, what could be better than a warm, cheesy muffin fresh from the oven, with hints of fragrant herbs? It’s comfort food at its best, and I can’t wait to share this with you.
What’s in Cheese and Herb Muffins?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these muffins oh-so-delicious! Each one brings something unique to the table (or muffin pan).
All-purpose flour: This is the base of our muffins, providing that fluffy texture we all love. I usually opt for unbleached flour for a more wholesome taste.
Baking powder: The trusty leavening agent that makes our muffins rise beautifully. Be sure to use a fresh batch; nothing worse than flat muffins, am I right?
Salt: A little pinch goes a long way. Salt enhances all the flavors in the muffins, so don’t skip this step!
Fresh herbs: This is where the magic happens! I adore using chives, parsley, and basil, but feel free to mix and match according to your personal taste. Fresh herbs really elevate these muffins.
Cheese: You can’t have cheese muffins without cheese! A good sharp cheddar is my go-to. You can also experiment with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist—trust me, it’s divine.
Milk: Just a splash makes the batter come together. I usually go for whole milk for that creamy texture, but any milk will do.
Egg: This binds everything together and adds richness to our muffins. I prefer using free-range eggs.
Butter: Melted and mixed into the batter, it gives a lovely flavor and makes the muffins moist.
Is Cheese and Herb Muffins Good for You?
Now, the health-conscious among us might be wondering if these scrumptious bites are any good for you. While they’re definitely not the lightest option out there, they do have their perks!
Flour: While all-purpose flour isn’t the healthiest, you can substitute it with whole wheat flour for more fiber.
Cheese: Packed with calcium and protein, cheese can be a nutritious addition. Just be mindful of the amount if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
Fresh herbs: They not only add flavor but also provide a variety of vitamins and antioxidants. So, a generous dose of those greens isn’t just tasty—it’s good for you!
Of course, these muffins are best enjoyed in moderation, especially since they can be easy to devour in one sitting, especially when they’re warm from the oven!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious muffins, which should serve about 12 hungry mouths:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (chopped, like chives, parsley, or basil)
– 1 cup cheese (shredded, preferably cheddar)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup butter (melted)
How to Make Cheese and Herb Muffins?
Ready to get baking? Here’s how to turn those ingredients into golden, cheesy goodness:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped herbs and cheese until they’re evenly distributed.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—lumps are totally okay!
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions for Your Muffins
Once your muffins are cooled (or not, who am I kidding?), enjoy them warm with a pat of butter, or serve them alongside your favorite soup or salad. You can also experiment with different cheese or herbs. The sky’s the limit!
And if you’re feeling a bit fancy, slice them in half and add a dollop of herbed cream cheese in between. Just think of it as an open-faced sandwich—pure bliss!
I hope you give these Cheese and Herb Muffins a try! They really fill the room with love (and a bit of cheesy goodness), and I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy baking, my friends!
