Savory Cheddar and Chive Muffins

Name: Savory Cheddar and Chive Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I’ve always had a soft spot for savory baked goods, and these Cheddar and Chive Muffins have become a favorite in our house. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives creates a flavorful burst in every bite. They're perfectly fluffy, making them great alongside soups or as a snack on their own. I love how quick they are to whip up, making them a go-to option when unexpected guests arrive or when I just want something comforting.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:46:28.219Z

When I first tried my hand at making these muffins, I was amazed at how the cheese melted beautifully, infusing every bite with its rich flavor. It was an experiment that turned into a delightful success, and I couldn’t have been happier with the result. The chives add a wonderful freshness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

The best part about these muffins is their versatility. I’ve made them for brunch, added extra spices, or even used different types of cheese based on what I had at home. Every variation has been a hit!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Deliciously cheesy with a hint of green onion flavor
Fluffy and moist texture that pairs beautifully with soups
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

The Role of Cheese and Chives

Sharp cheddar cheese plays a pivotal role in these muffins, providing a robust flavor that stands out in every bite. The cheese not only adds a delicious creaminess but also contributes to the muffins' moist texture. When selecting your cheddar, opt for high-quality cheese; an aged variety will give your muffins even more depth of flavor. Freshly shredding the cheese is recommended, as pre-shredded versions often contain additives that can affect the melting and texture of the muffins.

Chives offer a delicate onion flavor that balances the richness of the cheddar beautifully. Adding fresh herbs like chives not only brightens the flavor profile but also adds a pop of color. If you can't find fresh chives, feel free to substitute with finely chopped green onions or even a dash of onion powder in a pinch, though fresh herbs will always yield the best flavor.

Perfecting Your Muffin Technique

When combining your wet and dry ingredients, it's crucial to avoid overmixing. This step ensures your muffins remain light and fluffy rather than dense and chewy. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few flour streaks visible. Another handy tip is to let the muffin batter rest for about 10 minutes before baking. This allows the flour to hydrate fully and can lead to an even better texture.

While your muffins are baking, keep an eye on them towards the end of the 15-20 minute baking time. Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the lower end of the range. The muffins are ready when they are golden brown with a springy top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Letting them cool slightly in the tin will help them firm up, making them easier to transfer without falling apart.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful muffins:

Muffin Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs

Make sure to mix well to incorporate all the flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add Cheese and Chives

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives until evenly distributed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Fill Muffin Tin

Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Serve warm for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crumbled bacon to the batter.

Storage Tips

These savory muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for a quick snack later. To keep them at their best, allow them to cool completely and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen muffins, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you're in a hurry, you can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds. For a freshly baked taste, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

Flavor Variations

While the cheddar and chive combination is a classic, don't hesitate to experiment with other ingredients! For a twist, consider adding crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cheese. Alternatively, you can mix in diced red or yellow bell peppers for a sweet crunch, or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.

If you're following a gluten-free diet, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, so adjusting the amount of liquid may be necessary to achieve the perfect muffin consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chives?

Yes, you can use frozen chives, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess water.

→ How can I store leftover muffins?

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Certainly! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and the recipe should work just fine.

→ What drinks go well with these muffins?

These muffins pair wonderfully with a hearty soup, or you can enjoy them with a fresh salad or even a cup of coffee.