Get ready to fall in love with a snack that brings a burst of sunshine straight to your kitchen! This Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe is a vibrant mix of sharp cheddar, tangy feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and briny olives, all baked into soft, golden muffins that are perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a delightful lunch companion, or a flavorful hors d’oeuvre, these muffins pack in incredible Mediterranean flavors with every bite, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays an essential role—bringing balance, texture, and color that make these muffins irresistible from the first glance to the last crumb.
- Butter or oil spray: For greasing your muffin tin to ensure easy release and a perfect crust.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: Brings a rich, melty creaminess that forms the savory backbone.
- Feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a tangy, crumbly texture that’s iconic to Mediterranean dishes.
- Green olives, sliced: Provide a salty, slightly briny punch that balances the richness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes, strips: Intensify the muffins with a sweet and chewy bite bursting with concentrated flavor.
- Roasted peppers (capsicum), chopped: Lend a smoky sweetness that brightens every mouthful.
- Green onions, sliced: Offer a mild onion sharpness that’s fresh and vibrant.
- Flour (plain / all purpose): The structure base, creating soft yet sturdy muffins.
- Baking powder: Gives the muffins that lovely lift and fluffiness.
- Baking soda: Optional, used here to balance the rise when baking powder is reduced.
- Salt: Enhances and rounds all the flavors beautifully.
- Egg, large: Binds everything together with richness.
- Milk (full or low fat): Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- Sour cream or plain yoghurt: Adds moisture plus a subtle tang to brighten the muffins.
- Vegetable oil: For soft crumb texture and lasting freshness.
- Garlic clove, minced: Introduces a gentle savory depth to elevate the overall flavor.
How to Make Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Bakeware
Start by setting your oven to 180°C/350°F (fan 160°C/320°F) so it’s perfectly hot once your batter is ready. Next, generously brush your 12-hole muffin tin with butter or oil spray to prevent sticking and help develop a beautifully golden crust.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda (if using), and salt. This carefully measured mix is the foundation that ensures your muffins rise wonderfully and taste just right.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients Separately
Grab a second bowl and whisk the egg, milk, sour cream (or yoghurt), vegetable oil, and minced garlic together until silky smooth. Doing this separately prevents overmixing and keeps the gluten relaxed for tender muffins.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir quickly but gently about 8 times. This light mixing technique avoids tough muffins and keeps the crumb delightfully soft.
Step 5: Fold in the Mediterranean Goodies
Now for the fun part! Fold in the shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, sliced olives, and green onions. Stir no more than 7 big times to just combine—this secret makes the muffins tender while evenly distributing all those beautiful ingredients.
Step 6: Portion and Bake
Use an ice cream scooper or spoon to divide the thick batter into the muffin tin wells, slightly mounding each one. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25 minutes until golden-brown, crusty on top, and springy to the touch at the center.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your Mediterranean savoury muffins to cool for about 10 minutes in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack. Serving them warm will give you the best experience as their cheeky aroma and oozy cheesy center shine through.
How to Serve Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
To really make these muffins pop, sprinkle a pinch of fresh chopped parsley or oregano on top after baking. A little extra crumbled feta or a drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving intensifies the Mediterranean vibe and adds a splash of freshness.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, a bowl of creamy hummus, or a tangy tzatziki dip. Think of combining fresh veggie crudites or roasted Mediterranean vegetables to complete the whole experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the muffins in half and turning them into mini sandwiches by adding slices of tomato, cucumber, or even grilled halloumi. They also make charming party snacks when skewered with toothpicks alongside olives and cherry tomatoes, perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any muffins leftover, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They remain moist and flavorful, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these savory delights for up to three months. Wrap each muffin individually in cling film or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a Mediterranean treat anytime you need a fast and tasty bite.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw muffins overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for an hour. Warm them in a preheated oven at 160°C/320°F for about 10 minutes or microwave in short bursts until heated through—this brings back their fresh-baked goodness beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and feta provide a classic combo, you can experiment with mozzarella, parmesan, or goat cheese for variations. Just choose cheeses that melt well or add that desired tangy kick.
Are these muffins suitable for freezing?
Yes, these Mediterranean savoury muffins freeze exceptionally well! Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn and enjoy them within three months for the best taste.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Certainly! Plain yoghurt works brilliantly as a substitute, lending a similar tang and moisture without affecting the texture noticeably. For dairy-free, consider using coconut yogurt, though flavors will differ slightly.
How can I make these muffins spicier?
Add a pinch of chili flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of smoked paprika with the wet ingredients. This adds just the right amount of warm heat without overpowering the Mediterranean flavors.
What’s the secret to keeping these muffins soft?
The key is minimal mixing once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing develops gluten and results in tough muffins. Also, incorporating sour cream or yoghurt adds extra tenderness and moisture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about making and sharing this Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe. It combines wholesome ingredients and simple steps to deliver a snack that’s bursting with flavor and personality. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or warmed later, these muffins are your new go-to for a nourishing yet exciting treat. Give them a try today—you might just find your next favorite recipe to cherish and share!
Print
Mediterranean Savoury Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Savory Muffins
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mediterranean Savoury Muffins are a deliciously cheesy and flavorful snack or light meal option. Packed with cheddar, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, roasted peppers, and green onions, these muffins offer a delightful blend of Mediterranean ingredients in a soft, golden crust. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an on-the-go treat, they bake up moist and tender with a crispy top and a rich, savory taste.
Ingredients
For Greasing
- Butter or oil spray, for greasing
Cheeses and Vegetables
- 2 cups (200g) cheddar cheese, shredded (or other cheese)
- 75g (2.5oz) feta, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, strips
- 1/2 cup roasted peppers (capsicum), drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) plain / all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda (or substitute with 1 1/2 tsp baking powder if not using baking soda)
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg (about 60g / 2 oz)
- 1 cup (250ml) milk (full or low fat)
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or plain yoghurt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil or any plain flavored oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) fan-forced to ensure even baking temperature.
- Prepare the muffin tin: Generously brush a 12-hole standard muffin tin with butter or oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, sour cream (or yogurt), vegetable oil, and minced garlic until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently about 8 times to combine; do not overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Add cheeses and vegetables: Fold in the shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, green olives, and green onions. Mix just 5 to 7 large stirs to incorporate without overworking the batter.
- Portion the batter: Using an ice cream scooper or spoon, divide the thick batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, slightly mounding the batter in each hole.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the muffins turn golden brown, crusty on top, and spring back when lightly touched in the center.
- Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Use plain or all-purpose flour for best results; whole wheat can be substituted but will alter texture.
- The baking soda can be substituted with baking powder, but adjust quantity as noted.
- Sour cream can be replaced with plain yoghurt if preferred, providing a slight tang.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients and the mix-ins to keep muffins soft and tender.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with a gluten-free blend and check baking times as needed.
- These muffins are best served warm but can be reheated gently.
