Cheese and Herb Muffins

These Cheese and Herb Muffins are a savory, fluffy, and flavorful alternative to sweet muffins. Made with cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, they are perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or as a side to soups and salads. These muffins are easy to make and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a great grab-and-go option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
• Rich and Savory Flavor – A combination of cheddar, Parmesan, and fresh herbs for maximum taste.
• Soft and Moist Texture – Buttery and tender with a golden crust.
• Versatile – Great as a snack, side dish, or light meal.
• Customizable – Change the cheese or herbs to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cheddar cheese (grated)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh herbs (chopped, such as parsley, chives, or thyme)
• Large egg
• Milk
• Butter (melted)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease lightly with butter.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir in the grated cheddar, Parmesan, and chopped herbs.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
2. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

5. Fill and Bake

1. Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 12 muffins
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Garlic Herb Muffins – Stir in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Extra Cheesy – Increase the cheddar or add a mix of mozzarella or Gruyère.
• Whole Wheat Option – Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds or sesame seeds on top before baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes! Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs in place of 1 tablespoon of fresh.

Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes, substitute ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

What’s the best cheese for these muffins?

Cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère work well, but any sharp or aged cheese will add great flavor.

How do I make the muffins extra fluffy?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and use room-temperature ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to these muffins?

Yes! Chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or grated zucchini make great additions.

What can I serve with these muffins?

They pair well with soups, salads, scrambled eggs, or even a dollop of butter.

Can I make mini muffins instead?

Yes! Bake for 12–15 minutes for bite-sized muffins.

Why are my muffins dry?

Overbaking can dry them out—check for doneness at 20 minutes and remove when lightly golden.

Can I add bacon or ham?

Yes! Stir in ¼ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a heartier muffin.

How do I prevent muffins from sticking?

Use muffin liners or grease the tin well with butter or cooking spray.

Conclusion

These Cheese and Herb Muffins are a quick and delicious savory treat, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or side dishes. With their cheesy, buttery texture and fresh herb flavor, they are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or reheated later, these muffins are sure to become a favorite. Try them today!