Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions

Imagine biting into a warm, savory muffin, bursting with the flavors of sharp cheddar, fresh basil, and aromatic scallions. These Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are the perfect balance of cheesy goodness, herbaceous freshness, and soft, buttery texture—a delicious twist on traditional muffins!

These muffins are quick and easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. They’re fluffy on the inside with a golden, slightly crispy top, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to soups and salads.

Whether you’re meal-prepping, looking for a savory snack, or need a flavorful addition to your dinner table, these cheddar muffins are a must-try! Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions

First, they’re savory and cheesy, with melty cheddar in every bite, balanced by the freshness of basil and scallions.

Second, they’re super quick and easy. No fancy equipment or long waiting times—just mix, bake, and enjoy!

Finally, they’re versatile and pair well with anything—serve them with soups, eggs, grilled meats, or enjoy them as a snack on their own.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffins

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Ingredients for Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• ¾ cup milk (or buttermilk)
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)

Cheese & Herbs:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
• ¼ cup scallions (green onions), finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined. Stir in the Dijon mustard if using.

Step 2: Mix in Cheese and Herbs

1. Add the shredded cheddar, basil, and scallions to the dry ingredients. Toss to coat the cheese and herbs with flour, which helps distribute them evenly.
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold together until just combined. Do not overmix—a few lumps are okay!

Step 3: Bake the Muffins

1. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Enjoy warm with butter, cream cheese, or alongside soups and salads!

Ingredient Background

Cheddar Cheese – The Star of the Show

Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice for these muffins because it has a bold, tangy flavor that balances beautifully with the other ingredients. When melted, it gives the muffins a gooey, cheesy center with crispy golden edges. You can also try white cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a fun variation.

Fresh Basil – A Fragrant, Herbaceous Twist

Basil adds a fresh, slightly sweet, and peppery flavor that makes these muffins extra special. If using dried basil, reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon, as dried herbs have a more concentrated taste.

Scallions (Green Onions) – Mild Onion Goodness

Scallions provide a mild onion flavor without overpowering the muffins. They complement the richness of the cheese while adding a pop of color. If you don’t have scallions, you can substitute with chives or finely diced shallots.

Dijon Mustard – The Secret Ingredient

A small amount of Dijon mustard enhances the depth of flavor, making the cheese taste even cheesier! If you don’t have Dijon, you can use a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Technique Tips for the Best Cheddar Muffins

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese for the Best Texture

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting properly. Grating fresh cheddar ensures that the cheese melts smoothly into the muffins.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can result in dense, tough muffins. Stir just until the flour is incorporated—a few lumps are fine! Overmixing develops too much gluten, making the muffins chewy instead of fluffy.

3. Bake Until Golden Brown

For a perfect texture, bake until the muffins are lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Overbaking can dry them out, so keep an eye on them after 15 minutes.

4. Add a Crispy Cheese Topping

For an extra cheesy, golden crust, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar on top of each muffin before baking. This creates a delicious crispy layer of cheese on top!

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Want to serve these Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions in a fun and unique way? Try these creative ideas:

1. Mini Cheddar Muffins for Snacks

Use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized muffins, perfect for appetizers or lunchboxes. Reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes for mini muffins.

2. Breakfast Cheddar Muffin Sandwiches

Slice a muffin in half and add scrambled eggs, crispy turkey bacon, or avocado for a quick and easy breakfast sandwich.

3. Soup and Muffin Pairing

Serve these muffins with tomato soup, creamy potato soup, or broccoli cheddar soup for a comforting meal.

4. Herb Butter Spread

Pair the muffins with homemade herb butter—just mix softened butter with a little garlic, basil, and parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Freezing and Storing Cheddar Muffins

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

• Let the muffins cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

2. Freezing for Later

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 30 seconds from frozen.

3. Reheating for the Best Texture

• Microwave: 15-20 seconds per muffin.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes for a crispy exterior.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Want a lighter and healthier version of these muffins? Here are some simple modifications:

1. Use Whole Wheat Flour

Swap half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to add fiber and nutrients. The muffins will be slightly denser but still delicious!

2. Reduce the Butter

Use Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the butter for a lower-fat option while keeping the muffins moist.

3. Add Extra Vegetables

Boost nutrition by adding grated zucchini, spinach, or finely chopped bell peppers to the batter.

4. Make Them Low-Carb

For a low-carb option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and reduce the milk slightly to prevent a runny batter.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These savory Cheddar Muffins are perfect for any occasion! Here’s how to serve them for different events:

1. Brunch Party Favorite

Serve with scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, and fresh fruit for a delicious brunch spread.

2. Holiday Side Dish

These muffins make an amazing Thanksgiving or Christmas side—serve them alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce.

3. Game Day Snack

Slice the muffins in half and top with cream cheese, jalapeños, or crispy turkey bacon for a game-day snack!

4. Meal Prep for Busy Weeks

Make a batch and store them for quick grab-and-go breakfasts or lunchbox additions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Try pepper jack for spice, gouda for a smoky flavor, or feta for a Mediterranean twist.

3. How do I make these muffins extra fluffy?

Use room-temperature eggs and milk, and be careful not to overmix the batter. Also, baking powder is key—make sure it’s fresh!

4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking.

5. How can I make these muffins spicier?

Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1 diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

These Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions are a savory, cheesy, and incredibly easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish. Whether you enjoy them warm with butter, paired with soup, or packed for a quick snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Try making a batch today and let me know how they turn out! Happy baking!

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