Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins

Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins are a delicious and savory twist on traditional muffins, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish to soups and salads. These fluffy muffins have a cheesy surprise in the center, adding extra flavor and richness to every bite.

Here’s a simple recipe to make Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins:

Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins

Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or cream cheese blend)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 tsp dried herbs (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Filling:

1. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and any dried herbs you want to use. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

2. Make the Muffin Batter:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in the shredded cheese and fresh herbs.

3. Stuff the Muffins:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Spoon the Batter: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup.
3. Add Cheese Filling: Using a spoon or your fingers, add about a tablespoon of the cheese filling into the center of each muffin. Then, top with another spoonful of muffin batter to cover the filling.
4. Smooth the Top: Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top of the batter so that the filling is fully enclosed.

4. Bake the Muffins:

1. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (make sure to avoid poking into the cheese filling).
2. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Serve:

• Serve warm or at room temperature. These Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins are perfect on their own, or served with a hearty soup, salad, or even as a side with dinner.

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Tips and Variations:

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese combinations like gouda, parmesan, feta, or swiss for unique flavors.
• Add-ins: Add sautéed vegetables (like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers), cooked bacon, or even ham into the muffin batter for added savory flavor.
• Herb Variations: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using basil, rosemary, or oregano in place of chives or parsley.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the muffins the night before and store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the cheesy goodness.

These Cheese-Stuffed Savory Muffins are a great addition to any meal, offering a cheesy surprise in every bite! Enjoy!