Oh boy, do I have a delightful recipe to share with you today! You know those moments when you want something warm and savory to cozy up to? Well, these **Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions** are just the ticket—perfect for brunch, as a snack, or even as a side for your favorite soup. I stumbled upon this recipe during a rainy afternoon, and ever since, I’ve been hooked. The fragrant smell of basil mingling with sharp cheddar while they bake is a scent that just feels like home!
Every time I make these muffins, I’m transported back to a lovely picnic I had with my good friends. We sat by the lake, surrounded by nature, with a basket full of these warm muffins. They were the star of our culinary show, and my friends couldn’t get enough of them! Not to mention, they’re super easy to whip up, so the next time I found myself in the kitchen, I knew I had to share this gem with you. So, let’s get started on these fluffy, cheesy bites of goodness!
What’s in Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our muffins, giving them the right texture. Make sure to spoon and level the flour for accurate measuring!
Baking Powder: The magic ingredient that helps our muffins rise to fluffy perfection. Fresh baking powder ensures they puff up nicely!
Salt: A pinch goes a long way in enhancing all the flavors in this recipe.
Black Pepper: A touch of heat that balances the savory flavors. Feel free to adjust this according to your taste!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a wonderful, rich flavor! I love using a good quality cheese; it makes all the difference!
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats the aroma of fresh basil! It adds a fragrant kick that brings these muffins to life.
Scallions: These greens not only add color but also a mild onion flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
Buttermilk: The secret to moist muffins! You could also use homemade buttermilk by mixing milk and vinegar if you’re out.
Unsalted Butter: I use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness, but if you only have salted butter, that works too!
Egg: It helps bind all the ingredients together, contributing to that lovely texture.
Is This Recipe Good for You?
Absolutely! These muffins can be part of a balanced meal with some thoughtful considerations.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese, while delicious, is higher in fat, but proteins like these can help keep you feeling full. Moderation is key!
Fresh Basil: Not just tasty, but it’s rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Talk about a herb with benefits!
Scallions: They add a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, making these muffins not just a treat but somewhat nutritious too.
If you want to lighten things up a bit, you could always use a low-fat cheese or swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to up the fiber content.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/2 cup scallions, diced (green parts only)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
*This recipe makes about 12 muffins—perfect for sharing (or not!).*
How to Make Savory Cheddar Muffins with Basil and Scallions?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to aerate the flour.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped basil, and diced scallions to the flour mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Perfect Pairings and Variations!
– These savory muffins are a fantastic accompaniment to soups and salads. Imagine digging into a warm bowl of tomato soup with one of these bad boys on the side—heavenly!
– Serve warm with a pat of butter for an extra delicious treat.
– Want to mix things up? Try substituting the cheddar cheese with gouda or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. You could even throw in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist!
Honestly, if you haven’t made these muffins yet, what are you waiting for? They’re so comforting, delicious, and just plain fun to make! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Happy baking!
