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These savory bacon cheddar mini muffins combine crispy bacon and melted cheese in a perfectly soft, tender crumb. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make an excellent appetizer for gatherings or a delicious snack. Best enjoyed while still warm, they can also be prepared ahead of time for convenience.
The Perfect Party Bite
What makes these muffins irresistible is their melted cheddar center and crispy bacon pieces throughout. The combination of heavy cream, milk, and butter creates an exceptionally moist texture. Their mini size makes them ideal for barbecues and casual entertaining - an easy yet impressive recipe that delivers outstanding results.
Essential Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 195g for structure
- Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon to balance flavors
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons for proper rise
- Garlic and onion powder: ½ teaspoon each for seasoning
- Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance taste
- Whole milk: 178ml for moisture
- Heavy cream: 80g for richness
- Melted unsalted butter: 57g for tenderness
- Egg: 1 large for binding
- Sharp cheddar: 170g freshly grated
- Bacon: ¾ cup crispy and crumbled
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring just until nearly combined.
- Add Mix-ins
- Fold in grated cheddar and crumbled bacon until evenly distributed. Let rest 30 minutes if time permits.
- Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Fill greased or lined mini muffin tins. Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
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Tips for Success
Fresh grated cheese melts significantly better than pre-shredded varieties. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Allow batter to rest 30 minutes before baking for optimal rise. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, though they rarely last that long.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I get the batter ready in advance?
- Yes, you can mix the batter a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Make sure to let it sit out and warm up a bit before baking.
- → How do I store the muffins?
- Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. For best results, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before eating.
- → Can I swap out cheddar cheese?
- Absolutely! You could use other types like Swiss or Gouda. Just stick with a cheese that melts nicely.
- → Are these muffins freezer-friendly?
- Yes! They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge, then reheat them in the oven to bring back the crispiness.
- → Why is resting the batter important?
- Letting it rest helps the flour absorb the liquids, and it gives the leavening agents time to work. This means fluffier, lighter muffins.