Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Cheddar Bacon Explosion Muffins?
These are scrumptious savory muffins packed with aged cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, perfect for brunch or as a savory snack.
How many muffins does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 18 muffins.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
How should I prepare the muffin tins?
Generously grease 18 muffin tins to ensure the muffins are easy to remove after they have finished baking.
How do I cook the bacon for this recipe?
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it is crispy, then crumble it into small pieces once cooled.
Should I save the bacon grease?
Yes, you should reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings to mix with the melted butter for the batter.
What kind of flour is required?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour.
Does this recipe use cornmeal?
Yes, it uses 1/2 cup of yellow cornmeal to provide texture.
What type of cheese is best for these muffins?
The recipe recommends using 2 cups of grated aged (old) cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
Can I add vegetables to these muffins?
Yes, you can optionally include 1/3 cup of finely chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
What dry seasonings are included?
The dry ingredients include baking powder, salt (seasoned salt preferred), and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How do I combine the dry ingredients?
Stir together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper in a large mixing bowl until evenly mixed.
When do I add the cheese and bacon?
Fold the grated cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon into the dry flour mixture before adding any liquids.
How do I prepare the wet ingredients?
In a separate bowl, whisk a large egg until frothy, then stir in the half-and-half (or milk) and the butter/bacon fat mixture.
What is the total amount of fat used in the batter?
You use 2 tablespoons of melted butter plus 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings for a total of 1/4 cup.
How do I mix the wet and dry components?
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
What should I do if the batter looks too dry?
If the mixture seems dry, you can add one additional tablespoon of melted butter to reach a better consistency.
How much should I fill each muffin tin?
Fill each muffin tin about 3/4 full with the prepared batter.
Is there a topping for these muffins?
Yes, sprinkle each muffin with finely shredded cheddar cheese before placing them in the oven.
How long do the muffins need to bake?
Bake the muffins for approximately 20 minutes.
How do I check if the muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are fully baked.
Do I need to let the muffins cool?
Yes, allow some cooling time before attempting to remove the muffins from the tins.
What is the calorie count per muffin?
Each muffin contains approximately 133 calories.
How much fat is in one muffin?
There are 8.3 grams of fat per muffin.
How much protein is in each muffin?
Each muffin provides 5 grams of protein.
What are the carbohydrates per serving?
There are 10 grams of carbohydrates in each muffin.
Can I use regular milk instead of half-and-half?
Yes, you can use either half-and-half or full-fat milk for this recipe.
Is this recipe spicy?
It contains 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which provides a very mild kick that can be adjusted to your preference.
What kind of salt should I use?
While regular salt works, seasoned salt is preferred for added depth of flavor.
What are some serving suggestions for these muffins?
They are excellent served alongside fresh scrambled eggs or a zesty breakfast casserole for a complete brunch.