Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins

Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins are a savory and satisfying breakfast option that combines the rich, smoky flavor of ham with the melty goodness of cheese, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy muffin exterior. Whether you are looking for a quick, flavorful breakfast or a delicious snack, these muffins offer a perfect solution. They are easy to make and versatile enough to customize with different ingredients, making them a great addition to any meal plan.

In the world of breakfast muffins, savory options like these have gained tremendous popularity. Many breakfast foods focus on sweet flavors, but savory muffins are an excellent alternative for those looking to enjoy a more filling, protein-packed start to the day. If you’re someone who loves the taste of ham and cheese together, this combination in muffin form is a game changer. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort while being portable and easy to prepare.

For those looking to use leftover ingredients creatively, Jo Cooks offers an insightful recipe for using leftover ham in breakfast muffins, turning everyday scraps into something extraordinary.

History and Evolution of Breakfast Muffins

Muffins have a rich history, originating in both European and American culinary traditions. In the 18th and 19th centuries, muffins were commonly made as a kind of flatbread in England, typically toasted and served with butter. Over time, muffins began to evolve, especially in North America, where the concept of sweet and savory muffins took root.

Savory muffins are a more modern take on the classic. While sweet muffins became more widely known, the savory muffin emerged as a desirable breakfast item for people seeking a more balanced and savory alternative. These muffins typically feature ingredients such as cheese, meats like ham or bacon, and sometimes vegetables, making them both hearty and delicious.

One of the most notable savory muffin creations involves combining the rich, salty taste of ham with the creamy texture of cheese. The combination has become a staple for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal or snack. You can find various interpretations of this recipe online, and for a great example, check out She Wears Many Hats, where they provide a fantastic ham and cheese muffin recipe.

Nutritional Benefits of Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins

Not only are Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins delicious, but they are also packed with essential nutrients that make them a great way to start the day. With ham as a primary ingredient, these muffins are rich in protein, a crucial macronutrient for building and repairing tissues in the body. Additionally, the cheese used in the muffins adds a boost of calcium, vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

In terms of vitamins and minerals, ham provides a good source of iron and several B-vitamins, which are essential for energy production and metabolic function. The combination of ham and cheese helps to provide a balanced mix of fats and protein, keeping you fuller for longer.

When compared to other breakfast options like sugary pastries or high-carb cereals, ham & cheese breakfast muffins offer a more balanced nutrient profile. You’re not only filling up on calories but also providing your body with a good mix of macronutrients that help fuel the day.

Culinary Techniques for Achieving Crispy Texture

Achieving the perfect crispy texture for your ham and cheese muffins requires a few key baking techniques. The goal is to create a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.

1. Baking at the Right Temperature

Preheating your oven to the right temperature is essential for achieving a crispy muffin crust. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure that the muffins bake evenly. The hot temperature will allow the cheese to melt perfectly and form a crispy golden crust on top.

2. Use a Non-Stick or Greased Muffin Tin

To ensure the muffins come out easily and maintain their crispy exterior, it’s important to use a well-greased muffin tin. You can also opt for paper liners for easy cleanup. Non-stick muffin pans also work well to help achieve that crispy, golden edge.

3. Cheese for Crispiness

Cheese plays an integral role in the crispy texture of these muffins. When cheese melts during baking, it forms a thin, crispy layer on top of the muffin. You can increase the crispiness by adding a little extra shredded cheese on top of the batter before baking.

For more tips on how to perfect muffin texture and bake golden muffins every time, check out this helpful guide to muffin baking techniques.

Classic Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cooked ham, chopped into small pieces
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper cups for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Add in the chopped ham and shredded cheddar cheese and mix well so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the tops of the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the pan before removing them. Enjoy the delicious, crispy golden tops!

Creative Variations and Additions

One of the best things about ham and cheese breakfast muffins is their versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add Vegetables: Incorporating veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add a nutritious twist and make the muffins even heartier.
• Alternative Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even feta cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil will add a burst of flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a slight kick of heat.

Tips for Perfecting Your Muffins

Making the perfect crispy golden ham & cheese breakfast muffins requires a little attention to detail. Here are some key tips to ensure your muffins come out just right:

• Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins that aren’t as light and airy.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the milk and butter to room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter come together more easily.
• Check for Doneness: To ensure your muffins are perfectly baked, use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins can be enjoyed on their own or paired with other breakfast items to create a well-rounded meal. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Fruit Sides: A side of fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus, will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the muffins.
• Light Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with these savory muffins.
• Beverages: Enjoy your muffins with a hot cup of coffee, orange juice, or herbal tea.

For storage, place leftover muffins in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham?

Yes, you can substitute the ham with other meats like bacon, sausage, or even turkey for a lighter option.

How can I make these muffins vegetarian?

To make these muffins vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a hearty muffin.

Can I prepare the muffins in advance and freeze them?

Absolutely! Ham and cheese breakfast muffins freeze wonderfully. Just bake them, allow them to cool, and then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. Reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What are some low-fat alternatives for this recipe?

For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese, turkey ham, and substitute almond milk for regular milk.

How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, be sure to grease your muffin tin well or use paper muffin liners. A non-stick muffin pan is also a great option.

Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffins 1x

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Description

Crispy Golden Ham & Cheese Breakfast Muffins are a savory and satisfying breakfast option, combining smoky ham with melty cheese in a crispy, golden muffin. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cooked ham, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or use paper liners.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Add chopped ham and shredded cheese, mixing well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Spoon batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup ¾ full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: ham, cheese, muffins, breakfast, crispy, golden