Basic Cheese Muffins

This is a very quick, very simple recipe that comes in handy when you are out of bread or want a change to serve with a hot soup or chile. While not mind-blowing in terms of taste, this is a humble recipe with a mild flavour.

Besides, who doesn't love cheese?

The recipe is basic but you can spice it up to your liking by adding any number of herbs, spices or flavours. I've included some suggestions in the recipe below.

Basic Cheese Muffins

Ingredients

Makes 12 (or 6 muffins and 1 mini loaf)

• 1 1/2 cups flour (white tastes better, but whole wheat is healthier... I usually use half and half!)
• 1/2 Tbsp sugar 
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 cups + extra for sprinkling,  grated cheese (aged cheddar is ideal, but if it is hard to find, any strong cheese will do)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup plain yoghurt
• *optional: about 1/2 tsp fresh ground pepper 
• *optional: add your own herb or flavour to enhance this recipe. Suggestions are: 2-3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill, 1/3 cup diced cooked ham, 1-2 Tbsp chopped jalapeños or chiles (if you like spicy), sun dried tomatoes, olives ... the possibilities are endless!

Equipment

• 12 cup muffin tin or small loaf pan(s)
• Large bowl
• Smaller bowl
• Sturdy spatula or mixing spoon

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375F or 180C.
2. Grease baking equipment with a bit of butter.
3. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl. Mix with a fork until combined.
4. Stir in cheese and pepper (if using)
5. Beat egg with a fork in smaller bowl. Add yoghurt, milk and butter, ensuring that the butter has cooled slightly so as not to cook the eggs.
6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold to just combine. 
7. Spoon into muffin cups and/or mini loaf pan, filling 2/3 full.
8. Top with extra cheese and fresh ground black pepper (optional).
9. Bake 20 -25 minutes (for muffins) or 30-35 for loaves. Bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. 

*Note on Baking: Baking times may differ depending on your oven.  I have a small convection oven and cook times may differ if you are using a large gas or electric oven. I always suggest watching the food closely around the suggested baking times and removing it from the oven to check oven with a toothpick often.

Let cool slightly in pan before removing. Best served warm, and great with soup!