Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience that will awaken your taste buds and warm your heart—Cheesy Garlic Cruffins! These scrumptious treats blend the best of flaky pastry and cheesy goodness, all infused with the savory aroma of garlic. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an irresistible snack, these cruffins are sure to become a favorite in your home. With a golden brown crust and a soft, cheesy interior, they are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra melted butter for brushing
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cruffins
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Don’t forget to grease your muffin tin to ensure an easy release after baking!
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper, creating a savory foundation for your cruffins.
- Add the cubed cold butter to the flour blend. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for a flaky texture!
- Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese until they are beautifully distributed throughout the dough.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, and fresh parsley. This mixture will add moisture and a touch of color.
- Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined—be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely layers!
- Divide the dough among the muffin tin, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This allows space for rising while baking.
- For that enticing golden finish, brush the tops of each cruffin with extra melted butter.
- Place in your preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once done, allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will be hard to resist!
Notes or Tips
- If you love a burst of flavor, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives to the dough.
- For a deeper garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two of minced garlic.
- These cruffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Cooking Techniques
When making cruffins, the key to getting that delightful flaky texture lies in the method of incorporating the butter into the flour. By cutting in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs, you’re creating pockets of fat that will steam during baking, resulting in that light and airy feel. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the dough when combining the wet and dry ingredients to maintain the layered texture!
FAQ
- Can I make these cruffins ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just let it come to room temperature before placing it in the muffin tin.
- What other cheeses can I use? Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor twist!
- Can I freeze cruffins? Absolutely! Once completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
There you have it—Cheesy Garlic Cruffins that are guaranteed to become a household favorite! They are perfect for gatherings, family brunches, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself. The combination of flaky pastry, creamy cheese, and aromatic garlic creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness that comes from your oven. Happy baking!