There’s a certain joy that comes from waking up to the smell of freshly baked muffins, and trust me, these Cheddar Scallion English Muffins will make your mornings feel extra special. Picture this: It’s early, you’re still in your cozy pajamas, and the savory aroma of melting cheese and vibrant scallions begins to waft through your kitchen. This delightful smell is just a hint of the deliciousness that awaits!
I discovered this recipe while searching for a way to elevate my breakfast routine beyond typical toast. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of patience, these muffins come to life, creating a golden crust that hides a soft, cheesy interior. Whether you’re pairing them with your favorite breakfast scramble or enjoying them on their own, they are a versatile addition that even the pickiest eaters will appreciate.
Bonus: they’re quick to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for those busy mornings or last-minute brunch invitations. Let’s dive into the magic of these simple yet extraordinary muffins that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Why are Cheddar Scallion English Muffins a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and fresh scallions offers a unique taste sensation that elevates your breakfast.
Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have these delicious muffins on your table in no time!
Perfectly fluffy texture: They boast a delightful golden crust while remaining soft and chewy inside.
Versatile addition: Enjoy them with eggs, soups, or as a standalone snack—these muffins fit any occasion beautifully!
Great for sharing: Whip up a batch for brunch or whenever guests pop by, and watch as everyone asks for your secret recipe.
Cheddar Scallion Muffin Ingredients
• Get ready to bake some delightful Cheddar Scallion English Muffins!
For the Muffins
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your muffins, providing that beloved structure.
• 1 tbsp sugar – Just a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the other flavors, making them pop beautifully.
• 1 tbsp instant yeast – This helps the muffins rise, giving them that perfect fluffy texture.
• 1 cup warm milk – Activates the yeast and contributes to a tender, moist crumb.
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar – The star ingredient, bringing a rich and tangy flavor to each bite.
• 1/3 cup chopped scallions – Adds a fresh and zesty touch that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• 1 tbsp butter (for griddle) – Ensures your muffins have a beautifully golden crust while cooking.
• Cornmeal for dusting – Gives the muffins a nice texture on the outside and prevents sticking.
Enjoy your baking journey with these Cheddar Scallion English Muffins!
How to Make Cheddar Scallion English Muffins
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast until well blended. This foundation will create the structure and flavor of your muffins.
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Mix in milk: Pour in the warm milk and stir gently until a sticky dough forms. A soft, shaggy dough is what you’re aiming for—don’t worry, it will come together!
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Incorporate cheese and scallions: Fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped scallions, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place.
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Prepare the work surface: Dust your countertop or a large cutting board with cornmeal. This will help prevent sticking as you roll out the dough.
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Shape the muffins: Once the dough has risen, roll it out gently and cut it into rounds using a biscuit cutter or a glass. These rounds are the muffins, ready to rise again!
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Final rise: Allow the shaped rounds to rest and rise on the cornmeal-dusted surface for an additional 20 minutes. This step is vital for a light and airy texture.
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Heat the skillet: Preheat a dry cast iron skillet or griddle over low-medium heat. A properly heated skillet ensures a golden crust while keeping the muffins soft inside.
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Cook the muffins: Place the rounds in the skillet, cooking until they develop a golden crust—about 5-7 minutes per side. Flip them carefully to not disturb their lovely shape.
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Cool and serve: Once cooked, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes. This helps them set and makes slicing easier.
Optional: Serve with your favorite spread or alongside eggs for a hearty breakfast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheddar Scallion English Muffins?
These muffins are the perfect starting point for a delightful meal experience that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds.
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Scrambled Eggs: The creamy texture of fluffy scrambled eggs is a delightful contrast to the muffins, enhancing their buttery, cheesy goodness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the savory muffins, adding a touch of sweetness and brightness to your plate.
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Savory Yogurt Dip: Pair these muffins with a herbed yogurt dip for a tangy twist that complements the cheese and scallions beautifully. The coolness of the dip will elevate every bite!
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Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic pairing offers a contrasting warmth and richness, making for a beautifully satisfying meal on chilly days.
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Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette brings a fresh crunch, cutting through the muffins’ richness and balancing the flavors seamlessly.
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Herbal Tea or Coffee: Sip on a fragrant herbal tea or a robust cup of coffee to enhance the savory notes of the muffins while rekindling those cozy morning vibes.
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Cheddar Cheese Platter: Extend the cheesy goodness by serving additional sharp cheddar slices alongside the muffins, creating a delightful tasting experience that cheese lovers will adore.
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Honey Butter: Drizzle on some honey butter for a sweet indulgence; the sweetness pairs nicely with the savory muffins, offering a delightful yin and yang of flavors.
Cheddar Scallion English Muffin Variations
Feel free to get creative with these muffins to suit your personal taste or dietary needs; your kitchen should be a playground!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delightful version everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Use plant-based milk and replace butter with coconut oil. You can also swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicy surprise in each bite. This will jazz up your breakfast and wake up your taste buds!
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a fragrant twist. The added aroma will infuse your kitchen and elevate every muffin.
- Cheese Swap: Try substituting sharp cheddar with feta or pepper jack cheese for new flavors. Each option brings its own unique character to this muffin!
- Savory Add-In: Incorporate crispy bacon bits or turkey sausage for extra protein and a hearty touch. Your friends and family will adore this savory upgrade!
- Sweet Variation: For a dash of sweetness, stir in a few tablespoons of caramelized onions alongside the cheese. The combination of flavors will be irresistible!
- Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for an added crunch. This variation will deliver delightful texture and make your muffins more filling.
Expert Tips for Cheddar Scallion English Muffins
Perfecting your rise: Ensure the dough rises in a warm environment, as cool temperatures can hinder the yeast activation, leading to dense muffins.
Stickiness is good: Don’t be afraid of a sticky dough; it’s a sign you’re on the right track to achieving fluffy Cheddar Scallion English Muffins!
Heat control: Keep the skillet on low-medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the muffins to cook through. Patience will yield a perfect golden crust!
Check for doneness: Muffins should feel firm to the touch and sound hollow when tapped. If they’re too soft, give them a little more time on the skillet.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to adjust the cheese or add other herbs to the muffins for a customized flavor twist that suits your taste buds!
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Scallion English Muffins
Room Temperature: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor without drying them out.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the muffins in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Just be sure to let them warm up before serving!
Freezer: Freeze muffins individually by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or warm them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Cheddar Scallion English Muffins!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Scallion English Muffins are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time during busy mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and combining them with the warm milk, then folding in the cheese and scallions. After the first rise, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting it into rounds. This way, your muffins will be just as delicious and fluffy as if made fresh that day, ensuring you enjoy a delightful treat with minimal effort!
Cheddar Scallion English Muffins Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right scallions for my muffins?
Absolutely! Look for scallions that are firm and bright green. The white bulbs should be plump with no dark spots or wilting. Freshness is key to maximizing that zesty flavor in your muffins!
What’s the best way to store leftover Cheddar Scallion English Muffins?
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, moving them to the fridge will help them last about a week. Just be sure to warm them up before enjoying!
Can I freeze Cheddar Scallion English Muffins?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This step prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or pop them in a toaster for reheating!
What should I do if my muffins don’t rise as expected?
No problem! If your muffins don’t rise, it might be due to old yeast or a cool environment. Ensure your yeast is fresh—check the expiration date! Also, make sure your dough rises in a warm place, ideally around 80°F (27°C), which encourages yeast activation and creates those light, fluffy muffins you desire.
Are these muffins suitable for people with dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, I recommend substituting the milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk alternative. You can also replace the sharp cheddar with a dairy-free cheese to keep the delightful flavors while accommodating dietary needs.
How long can I keep cooked muffins in the freezer?
These Cheddar Scallion English Muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure they’re stored properly and use them within this timeframe for the best taste and texture. Enjoy the convenience of having delicious muffins ready when you need them!
Mouthwatering Cheddar Scallion English Muffins You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast until well blended.
- Pour in the warm milk and stir gently until a sticky dough forms.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar and chopped scallions, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Dust your countertop or a large cutting board with cornmeal.
- Roll the dough out gently and cut it into rounds.
- Allow the shaped rounds to rest and rise on the cornmeal-dusted surface for an additional 20 minutes.
- Preheat a dry cast iron skillet or griddle over low-medium heat.
- Place the rounds in the skillet, cooking until golden crust—about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool for 15 minutes.