Savory Cheesy Garlic & Herb Muffins with Paprika-Tomato Topping
These Savory Cheesy Garlic & Herb Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional muffins, combining bold flavors of cheese, garlic, and herbs in a fluffy texture that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying them hot right from the oven or saving them for a picnic, these muffins can stand in for bread or serve as a delicious snack. The addition of smoked and regular paprika gives each bite a warm, smoky flavor, while the juicy, roasted tomatoes on top add a touch of freshness. Perfect for brunches, afternoon teas, or a light lunch, these cheesy muffins will be a hit at any gathering. Inspired by Alison Holst’s “Meals Without Meat,” I’ve made a few adjustments to enhance the flavor, making them truly unforgettable. Enjoy them fresh, or keep them on hand for an easy snack throughout the week!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Grated cheese
2 cups (Preferably cheddar or any mild cheese)
Self-raising flour
1 1/2 cups (Wholemeal preferred)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (To taste)
Raw sugar
1 tablespoon (Granulated)
Cayenne pepper
1 pinch (For heat)
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon (Regular variety)
Smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon (For smoky flavor)
Garlic granules
1 teaspoon (For flavor)
Dried herbs
1 teaspoon (Mixed herbs preferred)
Egg
1 (Beaten)
Milk
1 cup (Any type preferred)
Tomatoes
2 (Sliced into 6 wedges each)
Melted butter
1 tablespoon (For brushing)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 210°C (410°F).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine grated cheese, self-raising flour, salt, sugar, cayenne pepper, both types of paprika, garlic granules, and dried herbs. Use your fingertips to mix lightly until combined, creating a well in the center.
3
In a separate bowl, beat together the egg and milk until well incorporated. Pour the liquid mixture into the well of the dry ingredients.
4
Gently fold the mixtures together using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring all the dry ingredients are incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
5
Grease a deep muffin tin with butter to prevent sticking. Use a tablespoon to scoop the muffin batter into each cavity, filling them as needed to use up all of the mixture.
6
Place a tomato slice on top of each muffin and lightly brush with melted butter or oil. Optionally, sprinkle with extra salt, cheese, or paprika.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown, spring back when lightly pressed, and the tomato slices are cooked and slightly shriveled.
8
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. To release the muffins easily, run a butter knife around the edges before lifting them out.
9
If muffins are stuck, you can turn the pan upside down over a plate or rack, place a wet sponge against the base of each muffin cavity for a minute, and gently shake until they release.
10
Serve warm or allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Cheesy Garlic & Herb Muffins?
They are a savory twist on traditional muffins featuring cheese, garlic, and herbs with a paprika and roasted tomato topping.
How many muffins does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 12 muffins.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 210°C (410°F).
What type of cheese should I use?
The recipe suggests 2 cups of grated cheese, preferably cheddar or any mild variety.
What kind of flour is best for these muffins?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of self-raising flour, with wholemeal being the preferred choice.
How much garlic is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of garlic granules for flavor.
What spices provide the flavor in these muffins?
The flavor comes from a combination of cayenne pepper, regular paprika, smoked paprika, garlic granules, and dried mixed herbs.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, these muffins are classified as vegetarian.
How long do the muffins need to bake?
They should bake for approximately 12 minutes until golden brown.
How do I know when the muffins are finished cooking?
They are done when they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
What topping is used for these muffins?
Each muffin is topped with a tomato slice and brushed with melted butter or oil.
How should I prepare the tomatoes?
You should take 2 tomatoes and slice each into 6 wedges to create 12 slices total.
Can I use a specific type of milk?
Yes, you can use 1 cup of any type of milk you prefer.
Why should I avoid overmixing the batter?
Overmixing can affect the texture; the batter should remain slightly lumpy for the best results.
How should I grease the muffin tin?
Grease a deep muffin tin with butter to prevent the batter from sticking.
What is the best way to remove the muffins from the tin?
Run a butter knife around the edges of each muffin after they have cooled for 5-10 minutes.
What can I do if the muffins are stuck in the pan?
Turn the pan upside down and place a wet sponge against the base of the muffin cavity for a minute, then gently shake.
How long should the muffins cool before serving?
Let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before removing.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Store them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by Alison Holst’s “Meals Without Meat” with adjustments for enhanced flavor.
Is there any sugar in this savory recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 tablespoon of raw granulated sugar.
What provides the smoky flavor in the muffins?
Smoked paprika is added specifically to provide a warm, smoky flavor.
Can I add extra toppings before baking?
Optionally, you can sprinkle extra salt, cheese, or paprika on top of the tomato slice before baking.
Are these muffins suitable for picnics?
Yes, they are described as a perfect snack for picnics, brunches, or afternoon teas.
What is the first step in the mixing process?
Combine the dry ingredients including cheese, flour, salt, sugar, spices, garlic, and herbs in a large bowl.
How do I incorporate the wet ingredients?
Beat the egg and milk together, then pour them into a well created in the center of the dry ingredients.
What is the texture of the finished muffins?
The muffins have a fluffy texture that serves as a great bread substitute.
Can these be served cold?
They can be served warm or allowed to cool completely before eating or storing.
What kind of herbs should I use?
The recipe recommends 1 teaspoon of dried mixed herbs.
How much melted butter is needed?
One tablespoon of melted butter is used for brushing the tops of the muffins.