Starting the Day with Savory Goodness
Growing up, weekends were a big deal in our household. My mom would always wake up a little earlier, head to the kitchen, and whip up a surprise breakfast for everyone. While most kids probably grew up on pancakes and waffles, in our house, it was all about savory muffins – warm, flaky, and filled with gooey cheddar. Today, I’ll be sharing a modern twist on her classic, my favorite Cheddar and Chive Breakfast Muffins. With their golden crust, bursts of sharp cheese, and delicate chive flavor, they’re the perfect answer to a busy morning or lazy brunch.
Cheddar and Chive Breakfast Muffins Recipe
These muffins are easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for prepping ahead. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or grab one on your way out the door, they’re a deliciously satisfying way to start the day.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Prepare Your Muffin Pan
Set up a muffin pan by either placing paper liners in each cup or giving each cup a light coating of oil or butter to prevent sticking. - Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and egg until thoroughly combined. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until everything just comes together. Avoid over-stirring to keep the muffins fluffy; a slightly uneven mixture is fine. - Add the Cheddar and Chives
Gently fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped chives, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. - Portion the Batter
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow space for rising. - Bake the Muffins
Put the pan in your preheated oven, baking the muffins for around 18-22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden, and a toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. - Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the muffins sit in the pan for a few minutes to set, then carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Choose a Sharp Cheddar – The sharpness of the cheddar brings a rich, savory depth to the muffins.
- Experiment with Add-ins – Add some crumbled bacon, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique twist.
- Storage and Reheating – Store in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, microwave for about 10 seconds.
Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fats: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Breakfast
These Cheddar and Chive Muffins are both filling and nutritious. They’re packed with protein and healthy fats, giving you sustained energy throughout the morning. Plus, their savory flavor makes them a standout among typical sweet breakfast options.
Internal Links
- Looking for more savory breakfast ideas? Check out our Cheesy Spinach Frittata Recipe.
- For a quick on-the-go option, you’ll love our Mini Cheese and Herb Quiches.
External Links
- Want to know more about the benefits of adding cheese to your diet? Read this article on health benefits of cheese from Healthline.
- Find high-quality cheddar cheese options on Cheese.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.
2. What’s the best way to store these muffins?
To keep them fresh, store the muffins in a sealed container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for up to a month if you’d like to enjoy them later.
3. Can I use other herbs besides chives?
Absolutely. Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even rosemary work well in these muffins.
4. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk with a dairy-free milk option and use vegan cheese to make a dairy-free version.
5. Can I add meat to the muffins?
Definitely. Adding cooked bacon or ham can make them even more savory and filling.