These savory breakfast muffins are a delightful departure from traditional sweet muffins, packing a punch of flavor with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables. They’re perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast, a savory snack, or even a light lunch.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- This includes chopping the vegetables, cooking the bacon, and mixing the muffin batter.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- This is the baking time for the muffins.
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- This includes all preparation and cooking time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a richer flavor) Note: You can reduce this for a more purely savory muffin
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk (or buttermilk, almond milk, or other milk alternative)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4-6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped onion leaves (or green onions)
Directions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the bacon until crispy. Crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
- Grate the carrot and chop the onion leaves.
- Shred the cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with cooking spray.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
-
Add Savory Ingredients:
- Fold in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, grated carrot, and chopped onion leaves until evenly distributed.
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Fill Muffin Cups:
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
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Bake the Muffins:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
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Cool and Serve:
- Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate per muffin, based on 12 muffins):
- Calories: 250-350
- Protein: 8-12g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
- Fiber: 1-3g
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:
Savory muffins are a relatively modern adaptation of traditional sweet muffins. While muffins have been around for centuries, the incorporation of savory ingredients like bacon, cheese, and vegetables is a more recent trend. This recipe reflects the growing popularity of savory breakfast and snack options, catering to those who prefer a less sweet start to their day. The combination of familiar flavors and textures, along with the convenience of grab-and-go muffins, has contributed to their widespread appeal. These savory muffins are often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast alternative or a satisfying snack, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Savory and Flavorful: A delicious departure from sweet muffins.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and vegetables.
- Convenient: Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite savory ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing option for all ages.
Health Benefits of:
- Protein (from bacon, cheese, and eggs): Supports muscle health and satiety.
- Vegetables (carrot and onion leaves): Provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Calcium (from cheese): Supports bone health.
Serving Suggestions of:
- Breakfast: Serve warm with a side of yogurt or fruit.
- Snack: Enjoy as a mid-morning or afternoon snack.
- Lunchbox: Pack in lunchboxes for a savory treat.
- Brunch: Include as part of a brunch spread.
Tips:
- Cook Bacon Crispy: Ensure the bacon is cooked crispy to add a crunchy texture to the muffins.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend more easily.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the muffins are cooked through.
- Cool Completely: Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Variations to Try:
- Add Other Vegetables: Include diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gruyère, or feta.
- Add Herbs: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use Different Meats: Substitute bacon with cooked ham, sausage, or turkey.
Conclusion:
These savory breakfast muffins with bacon, cheese, and vegetables are a delicious and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their customizable ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use turkey bacon?
- Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative.
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes, but thaw and drain them well before adding.
- Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- How do I store these muffins?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can I freeze these muffins?
- Yes, wrap the cooled muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw them at room temperature or in the microwave.
- Can I omit the sugar?
- Yes, you can omit the sugar for a more purely savory muffin.
- Can I use a stand mixer?
- Yes, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works well.
- How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?
- Use paper liners or grease the muffin tin thoroughly.
- Can I add other spices?
- Yes, garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika are great additions.