Have you ever stumbled upon a recipe that instantly captures your attention, compelling you to drop everything and head straight to the kitchen? That’s precisely how I felt the moment I discovered this incredible recipe for Garlic Cheese Muffins. It was late one evening, around 10 PM, while I was leisurely flipping through the pages of Southern Living Magazine. Suddenly, a picture of these golden-brown, cheesy, and aromatic muffins seemed to leap off the page, igniting an immediate craving.

As a devoted enthusiast of garlic, cheese, and muffins – individually, they are divine; together, they create a symphony of flavor! The idea of combining these three beloved elements into one delightful package was simply too good to resist. And let me tell you, these muffins truly live up to the hype. They are exceptionally good, delivering a perfect balance of savory richness and comforting warmth with every bite. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they quickly become a household favorite.

Why These Garlic Cheese Muffins Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

These Garlic Cheese Muffins aren’t just a fleeting culinary fancy; they’re destined to become a staple in your recipe collection. Their unparalleled ease of preparation, combined with their versatile and utterly delicious flavor profile, makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying breakfast, a delightful addition to your brunch spread, a comforting side for dinner, or simply a flavorful snack to curb those savory cravings, these muffins deliver every time.

What sets them apart? The harmonious blend of pungent fresh garlic and sharp cheddar cheese, baked into a tender, moist muffin, creates an experience akin to having individual cheesy garlic bread portions, but in a more convenient and portable form. They’re far from your typical sweet muffin; these are a savory sensation that will leave everyone asking for more. Their golden crust and soft interior, studded with gooey cheese and aromatic garlic, make for an irresistible treat. Prepare to fall in love with these easy garlic cheese muffins!

The Simple Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best aspects of these delectable Garlic Cheese Muffins is their straightforward ingredient list. You likely have most of these pantry staples on hand already, making an impromptu baking session entirely possible! Below is a quick overview of the simple ingredients that come together to create these epic savory muffins. For specific measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the comprehensive recipe card further down this post.

• Self-Rising Flour: This is the secret to fluffy, perfectly leavened muffins without the need for additional baking powder or salt. It’s a fantastic shortcut, simplifying the baking process considerably and ensuring a consistent rise every time.
• Milk: Provides the necessary moisture to create a tender crumb and helps bind all the ingredients together smoothly. Any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy) will work, so use what you have on hand.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The undeniable star of the show! Sharp or mild, cheddar cheese melts beautifully and infuses the muffins with a rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. For the best melt and freshest taste, consider shredding a block of cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded varieties.
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: Essential for that irresistible garlicky aroma and pungent taste that defines these muffins. Minced fresh garlic offers the most vibrant and authentic flavor compared to garlic powder or pre-minced jars.
• Mayonnaise: This might seem like an unconventional ingredient for muffins, but it plays a crucial role. Mayonnaise adds incredible moisture and a subtle richness, contributing to the muffins’ exceptionally tender texture and enhancing their savory profile. Don’t skip it!
• Sugar: Just a touch of white sugar is included to balance the savory notes, enhance the overall flavor, and assist in achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust on top of the muffins, without making them overtly sweet.

Essential Equipment for Muffin Success

Having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother, more efficient, and ultimately more enjoyable. For these Garlic Cheese Muffins, you won’t need anything overly specialized, but a few key pieces of kitchen equipment will be invaluable. Investing in good quality tools can significantly improve your results and make baking a delight. Here’s what I recommend:

• Large Mixing Bowl: A spacious mixing bowl is absolutely crucial for comfortably combining all your ingredients without splashes or spills. We are particularly fond of a glass batter bowl that features a sturdy handle. The handle provides excellent grip, making it easier to mix thoroughly and keeping the bowl stable on your countertop, which is a huge convenience.
• Kitchen Spoon/Spatula: You’ll need a reliable utensil for effortless mixing, folding, and scraping down the sides of your bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. A silicone spatula is ideal because it’s flexible enough to get into all corners, ensuring no precious batter goes to waste.
• Muffin Pan: A standard 12-cup muffin pan is perfectly suited for this recipe, allowing you to bake a full batch at once. To prevent sticking and ensure easy release, always remember to grease your muffin pan thoroughly or line each cup with paper baking liners.
• Heat-Resistant Potholders: Safety in the kitchen is paramount! A couple of years ago, we had a concerning incident when a cloth potholder accidentally caught fire after touching a hot burner. Since then, we’ve switched exclusively to heavy-duty, heat-resistant silicone potholders for complete peace of mind. They are a small but worthwhile investment for any home kitchen, providing essential protection when handling hot pans.

How to Make These Delightful Garlic Cheese Muffins

Preparing these savory muffins is remarkably simple, making them accessible even for novice bakers. The key to a tender crumb and perfectly textured muffins lies in gentle mixing and avoiding over-handling the batter. While complete, detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article, here’s a quick overview to give you an idea of just how easy it is to bring these flavorful muffins to life:

1. Prepare the Batter Base: In your chosen large mixing bowl, gently combine the self-rising flour and milk. Stir these two ingredients together using your kitchen spoon or spatula until they are just moistened. It’s crucial not to overmix at this stage; a few streaks of flour are acceptable, as overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
2. Incorporate the Flavor Boosters: Once your base batter is formed, it’s time to add the star ingredients. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, the finely minced fresh garlic, the creamy mayonnaise, and the hint of sugar. Continue to fold these ingredients in gently until they are just evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step ensures every bite is packed with that irresistible cheesy garlic flavor.
3. Fill the Muffin Pan: With your batter ready, spoon it evenly into a greased 12-cup muffin pan. Aim to fill each cup about two-thirds full. This allows sufficient space for the muffins to rise beautifully without overflowing, giving them that classic dome shape.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the filled muffin pan into a preheated oven (refer to the recipe card for the exact temperature). Bake for the recommended time, or until the tops of the muffins are gorgeously golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The incredible aroma filling your kitchen will be your delicious reward and a clear sign that these savory treats are nearly ready to enjoy!

Preparation and Storage Tips for Freshness

To ensure your Garlic Cheese Muffins are always at their best, understanding proper preparation and storage techniques is key. These tips will help you enjoy fresh, flavorful muffins whenever the craving strikes, and minimize any waste.

Make-Ahead & Freshness Considerations

Since this savory muffin recipe relies on self-rising flour for its leavening, we generally don’t recommend mixing the batter too far in advance and letting it rest for extended periods. The leavening agents in self-rising flour begin to activate upon contact with liquid, and resting the batter for too long can result in less fluffy muffins with a denser texture. Fortunately, the entire recipe, from mixing all the ingredients to baking the muffins, takes less than half an hour. This means you’re never more than a short, enjoyable baking session away from a fresh, warm batch of these delightful Garlic Cheese Muffins!

Optimal Storage Instructions

Because these muffins contain perishable ingredients like cheese, proper storage is essential to maintain their quality, freshness, and safety. Once your Garlic Cheese Muffins have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Store this container in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, they will remain delicious and safe to eat for up to three days. This method prevents them from drying out and keeps the cheese fresh and flavorful.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

These savory muffins freeze beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prepping, stocking your freezer for quick snacks, or having a convenient side dish on hand. To freeze, first allow the muffins to cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until firm. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months without losing much quality. For added convenience, you can wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the larger container or bag. This way, you can easily grab one or two at a time as needed, without having to thaw the entire batch.

How to Reheat Your Garlic Cheese Muffins

Reheating these savory muffins is a breeze, especially using a microwave for speed and convenience. The precise cooking time will vary depending on the wattage and power of your microwave, but you can typically start with 30 seconds for a single muffin and then increase in 15-second intervals until it is warmed through to your liking. Always remember to remove any plastic wrap or individual packaging before reheating to prevent it from melting onto your food as it heats. If you’re reheating muffins straight from the freezer, it’s generally best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. This ensures more even heating and helps maintain their tender texture.

Recipe Variations and Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Cheese Muffins

While the classic Garlic Cheese Muffin recipe is undoubtedly a winner, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Don’t be afraid to experiment with these variations and expert tips to customize them to your taste and ensure every batch you bake is absolutely perfect.

Smart Ingredient Substitutions

• Self-Rising Flour Alternative: This recipe primarily uses self-rising flour for its convenience, as it already includes baking powder and salt. If you only have all-purpose flour on hand, you can easily make your own self-rising flour. Simply combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of fine salt. Just multiply this mixture for the amount needed in the recipe.
• Expand Your Cheese Horizons: We absolutely adore the robust flavor of shredded cheddar cheese with garlic, which provides a familiar and comforting taste. However, the beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to substitute with any cheese that pairs well with garlic, such as creamy Monterey Jack, nutty Swiss, rich Gruyère, a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick, or even a blend of Italian cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for a different profile.
• Mayonnaise Swaps for Different Tastes: For a lighter take or a slightly different flavor profile, you can replace the mayonnaise with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise. Both options will help maintain the muffins’ desirable moisture while offering a subtle variation in taste. Sour cream can also be a good substitute for added richness and tang.

Dietary Adaptations for Everyone

• Vegetarian Option: This recipe is inherently vegetarian as written, making it a fantastic choice for those following a meat-free diet without any modifications needed.
• Vegan Option: To make these delightful muffins completely vegan, simply swap out the dairy milk for a plant-based alternative (like almond, soy, or oat milk), use a high-quality shredded plant-based cheddar cheese, and opt for a vegan mayonnaise. Ensure all your chosen substitutes are certified vegan.
• Gluten-Free Garlic Cheese Muffins: Achieving gluten-free Garlic Cheese Muffins is straightforward. Just substitute the regular self-rising flour with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend. It’s important to choose a blend that is specifically formulated for baking, as different GF flours have varying absorption rates and textures.
• Sugar-Free Version: The original recipe contains a minimal 4 grams of sugar per serving, primarily for browning and balancing the savory notes, not for sweetness. If you’re aiming for a completely sugar-free version, simply replace the white sugar with your preferred granulated sugar-free substitute, carefully following the manufacturer’s guidelines for conversion to achieve the desired result.

Adjusting Serving Sizes and Flavor Profiles

• Smaller or Larger Batches: The base recipe yields a dozen standard-sized muffins, which is perfect for a family or a small gathering. However, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and scales up or down with ease. Whether you need a smaller batch for a quiet morning or a triple batch for a large party or event, simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat to awaken your palate, incorporate a teaspoon or two of chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the batter before baking. For a depth of flavor without the intense spice, smoked paprika is a fantastic addition, lending a beautiful color and a complex smoky undertone. A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a subtle warmth.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile even further by adding 1-2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs to the batter. Chives offer a mild oniony note, fresh parsley brightens the flavor, and finely minced rosemary or thyme pairs wonderfully with garlic and cheese, adding an earthy depth.
• Bacon or Ham Bits: For a non-vegetarian twist, crispy cooked and crumbled bacon bits or finely diced ham can be deliciously folded into the batter. These additions bring another layer of savory deliciousness and a satisfying texture to the muffins.

What to Serve with Your Garlic Cheese Muffins

These versatile Garlic Cheese Muffins are far more than just a snack; they are the perfect savory complement to an array of meals. Their rich, garlicky, and cheesy profile makes them an ideal companion for everything from light lunches to hearty dinners, acting as a delicious and comforting bread substitute.

Perfect Side Dishes

Pair these irresistible muffins with a refreshing or hearty side dish to create a balanced and satisfying meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

• BLT Pasta Salad
• Sauerkraut Salad
• CrockPot Stuffed Tomatoes
• Spicy Deviled Eggs
• CrockPot Bourbon Baked Beans
• CrockPot Stuffed Peppers with Cheese
• CrockPot Shrimp and Grits
• Cracker Barrel Green Beans
• Loaded Mashed Slow Cooker Cauliflower
• Broccoli Slaw

Hearty Main Dishes

These savory muffins excel as an accompaniment to warming and substantial main courses, acting as a delightful and more interesting bread substitute.

• Crock Pot Spicy Bacon & Beef Chili
• Smoked Sausage Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
• CrockPot Chicken Noodle Soup
• CrockPot Turkey Chili
• CrockPot Camp Stew
• CrockPot Gumbo
• CrockPot Meatloaf
• Crock Pot Three Bean Vegetarian Chili

Sweet Endings (Desserts)

After a wonderfully savory meal featuring these muffins, a sweet dessert provides the perfect contrasting finish, satisfying all taste buds.

• Strawberry Fluff Salad
• Grape Salad
• Orange Dreamsicle Salad
• Apple and Snickers Salad
• Lemon Icebox Pie
• Pig Pickin’ Cake
• Watergate Salad
• Ambrosia Salad
• Butterfinger Cake
• Strawberry Poke Cake
• Cherry Fluff Salad
• Oreo Poke Cake
• Bisquick Peach Cobbler

Refreshing Drinks

Complete your meal with a cool, refreshing beverage that perfectly complements the savory notes of the muffins, providing a delightful contrast.

• Kool-Aid Slushie
• Red Robin Freckled Lemonade
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Lemonade
• Copycat Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade
• Sonic Ocean Water
• Brazilian Lemonade
• Copycat McDonald’s Sweet Tea
• Watermelon Agua Fresca
• Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade

When to Enjoy Garlic Cheese Muffins

The beauty of these savory muffins lies in their incredible versatility. They’re not just for one meal; they can seamlessly fit into various parts of your day, making them a fantastic addition to almost any occasion, from casual breakfasts to elegant dinners.

• Breakfast: A warm, cheesy, garlicky muffin is a delightful and filling way to start the day, especially alongside eggs, bacon, or a steaming cup of coffee.
• Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread with these unique savory muffins. They pair wonderfully with quiches, frittatas, fruit salads, and other traditional brunch favorites, adding a distinctive savory element.
• Lunch: Serve them as a hearty and flavorful side with a light soup, a fresh green salad, or a simple sandwich, adding substance and a delicious twist to your midday meal.
• Dinner: An excellent alternative to traditional dinner rolls or garlic bread, these muffins are perfect with pasta dishes, comforting chilis, hearty stews, and roasted meats or vegetables.
• Easy Snack: When hunger strikes between meals, a warm or room-temperature Garlic Cheese Muffin is a satisfying, flavorful, and incredibly comforting snack that’s far from boring.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed these Garlic Cheese Muffins, you’ll be thrilled to dive into these other fantastic recipe collections designed to simplify your cooking and delight your taste buds. From quick breads to comforting meals, and easy desserts, there’s something for every craving and every skill level in the kitchen.

• Easy Bread Recipes – Discover how effortlessly you can whip up various bread favorites, from simple loaves to delightful rolls, using common pantry ingredients. These recipes prove that delicious homemade bread doesn’t require hours of effort!
• Pasta Recipes – Indulge in the glorious world of pasta with this extensive collection. Whether you’re craving quick skillet entrees, comforting pasta bakes, or convenient Crockpot pasta dishes, you’ll find a recipe to love and add to your rotation.
• Breakfast for Dinner Ideas – Who says the “most important meal of the day” can’t transition seamlessly from morning to evening hours? This collection offers perfect nighttime brunch meals that are sure to satisfy and surprise.
• Comfort Foods – Explore an entire collection dedicated to the heartwarming, soul-satisfying dishes that define true comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings.
• 3 Ingredient Recipes – Unlock the magic of simplicity with these amazing 3-ingredient recipes. From refreshing drinks and easy entrees to quick desserts, you’ll be amazed at what you can create with just a few basic components.
• 5 Ingredient or Less Dessert Recipes – Prepare to be astonished by the epic and delicious desserts you can create using only five ingredients or fewer. Quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying!

This recipe is also proudly featured as one of our best side dishes for ham, proving its versatility and perfect pairing beyond just casual dining. They add a wonderful savory element to any holiday or family ham dinner.

Hungry for even more culinary inspiration? Be sure to explore our extensive collection of creative copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes for every sweet tooth, and our wonderfully convenient CrockPot Recipes, designed to make weeknight meals effortless.

Printable Recipe Card: Garlic Cheese Muffins

Here’s the full, printable recipe for your convenience, detailing every step to make these amazing Garlic Cheese Muffins. They are absolutely fantastic paired with spaghetti, chili, or simply enjoyed on their own as a savory snack!

Garlic Cheese Muffins

An easy recipe for savory Garlic Cheese Muffins. Perfect as a side dish or snack!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 1 vote

Print Recipe | Rate This Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Yields: 12 muffins

Calories: 162 kcal per serving

Author: Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• 1 cup Milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• ¼ cup Mayonnaise
• 2 Tablespoons White Sugar

Instructions

1. Combine self-rising flour and milk in a large bowl. Stir until just moistened.
2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, minced garlic, mayonnaise, and sugar until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Spoon the batter evenly into a greased 12-cup muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
4. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) for 18 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Kitchen Tools

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Muffin Pan
• Kitchen Spoon/Spatula
• Heat-Resistant Potholders

Nutrition Facts

Garlic Cheese Muffins

Amount Per Serving

Calories 162 (Calories from Fat 63)

% Daily Value*

Fat 7g (11%)

• Saturated Fat 3g (19%)

Cholesterol 12mg (4%)

Sodium 97mg (4%)

Potassium 65mg (2%)

Carbohydrates 19g (6%)

• Fiber 1g (4%)
• Sugar 4g (4%)

Protein 6g (12%)

Vitamin A 136IU (3%)

Vitamin C 1mg (1%)

Calcium 97mg (10%)

Iron 1mg (6%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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This recipe was originally shared on April 11, 2013, and last updated in December 2020 to ensure its continued deliciousness and relevance, bringing fresh tips and insights to our readers.