Can I use gluten-free flour for these muffins?

Absolutely! A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. The texture might be slightly different, but they'll still be delicious. You may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of milk as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture.

Why didn't my muffins rise properly?

This could be due to a few reasons: your baking powder might be expired, the oven temperature might be off, or the batter was overmixed. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, consider using an oven thermometer to verify temperature, and remember to mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can make them a day ahead, store at room temperature, and then warm them briefly before serving. Alternatively, you can prepare the batter up to the point of baking, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh the next day. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the baking time if the batter is cold.

Are these muffins spicy?

No, these muffins aren't spicy at all. The garlic and onion powders add savory flavor without heat. If you'd like some spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture or mixing some diced jalapeños into the batter.

Easy Garlic Cheddar Cheese Muffins Recipe

Name: Easy Garlic Cheddar Cheese Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup whole milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/8 teaspoon onion powder; 1/8 teaspoon dried parsley

This Easy Garlic Cheddar Cheese Muffins recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory and comforting. Ready in just 30 minutes, these muffins are bursting with sharp cheddar flavor and finished with a mouthwatering garlic butter that takes them to the next level. They’re incredibly versatile – perfect alongside soups, salads, or even as a standalone snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: From start to finish in just 30 minutes – perfect for those nights when you need something delicious without the fuss.
Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar baked into the muffin and the garlic butter topping creates layers of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Versatile: These muffins work with practically any meal – breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or just on their own.
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve never met anyone who doesn’t love these muffins. They disappear almost instantly whenever I serve them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

All-purpose flour: The foundation of our muffins, providing structure while keeping them tender.
Granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance the savory flavors without making the muffins sweet.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that gives these muffins their perfect rise.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors in the muffin – don’t skip this!
Sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor punch, but feel free to experiment.
Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
Egg: Provides structure and helps bind everything together.
Unsalted butter: Creates a tender crumb in the muffin and forms the base of our garlic topping.
Garlic powder: Gives that irresistible garlic flavor without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic.
Onion powder: Works with the garlic for a more complex flavor profile.
Dried parsley: Adds a touch of color and subtle herb flavor to the butter topping.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Want to make these muffins your own? Here are some fantastic variations to try:

Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is my go-to, pepper jack adds a nice kick, and a smoked gouda creates a wonderful depth of flavor.
Add-ins: Crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or jalapeños folded into the batter take these muffins to new heights.
Herb Lovers: Add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme to the batter for a fresh twist.
Spicy Version: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your muffins some heat.

How to Make Garlic Cheddar Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Thoroughly spray a muffin tin with baking spray, using a pastry brush to ensure even coating. This step is crucial for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures your leavening agent is distributed evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the dry ingredients. Coating the cheese in flour helps prevent it from sinking to the bottom of the muffins during baking.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Create the Batter

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. The key here is not to overmix – a few lumps are perfectly fine and will give you tenderer muffins.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

Distribute the batter evenly among the muffin cups. They should be about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the muffins are baking, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and dried parsley in a small bowl.

Step 9: Apply the Garlic Butter

As soon as the muffins come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Don’t be shy – use it all for maximum flavor!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your milk and egg come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter and better rise.
Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense muffins.
Cheese Matters: Grate your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect both texture and meltability.
Muffin Tin Filling: Use an ice cream scoop to evenly distribute the batter for uniform muffins that bake at the same rate.
Butter Application: A silicone brush works best for applying the garlic butter evenly and getting into all the nooks and crannies.

How to Serve

These versatile muffins complement so many dishes beautifully:

Perfect Pairings:

Serve alongside a hearty bowl of tomato soup or chili for the ultimate comfort food combination.
Add to your breakfast spread with scrambled eggs and bacon.
Include in your bread basket at dinner alongside a roast chicken or pot roast.

Meal Ideas:

Split and toast them the next day, then top with a fried egg for a quick breakfast.
Use as the base for mini sandwiches with sliced ham or turkey.
Crumble over a salad as a flavorful alternative to croutons.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store completely cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each cooled muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. This is why doubling the recipe is always a good idea!

Reheating

For room temperature or refrigerated muffins: Warm in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

For frozen muffins: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above, or reheat from frozen in a 300°F oven for 10-12 minutes.

For an extra flavor boost, brush with a little fresh melted butter after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for these muffins?

Absolutely! A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well in this recipe. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious. You may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of milk as gluten-free flours tend to absorb more moisture.
Why didn’t my muffins rise properly?

This could be due to a few reasons: your baking powder might be expired, the oven temperature might be off, or the batter was overmixed. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, consider using an oven thermometer to verify temperature, and remember to mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can make them a day ahead, store at room temperature, and then warm them briefly before serving. Alternatively, you can prepare the batter up to the point of baking, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh the next day. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the baking time if the batter is cold.
Are these muffins spicy?

No, these muffins aren’t spicy at all. The garlic and onion powders add savory flavor without heat. If you’d like some spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture or mixing some diced jalapeños into the batter.

Final Thoughts

These Garlic Cheddar Cheese Muffins have become a staple in my kitchen for good reason – they’re incredibly easy to make yet deliver tremendous flavor. Whether paired with your favorite soup, served alongside a hearty breakfast, or enjoyed as a savory snack, these muffins never disappoint. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks. I hope you’ll give these a try and discover just how satisfying homemade savory muffins can be!