ππ§ Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins π§π
What is it?
Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins are delightful savory-sweet treats that combine the comforting flavors of apples and the rich, tangy taste of cheddar cheese. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. They offer a unique twist on traditional sweet muffins by incorporating savory cheese and the natural sweetness of apples.
History:
The exact origin of Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins is unclear, but the combination of apples and cheese in baked goods has been a favorite in various cultures for centuries. The concept of combining fruit with cheese can be traced back to European traditions. The muffin itself has its roots in England, where it was initially more bread-like. Over time, muffins evolved into the sweet and savory variations we enjoy today.
Components:
To make Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins, you’ll need the following components:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the dry mixture.
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In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
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Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
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Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Total Time:
The preparation and baking of Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins typically take about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, depending on your oven’s exact temperature and how long it takes for the muffins to bake and cool. Enjoy your homemade muffins as a delicious and unique treat that combines the flavors of apples and cheddar cheese in perfect harmony! π§ππ
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per muffin):
- Calories: 230-250 calories
- Total Fat: 11-12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6-7 grams
- Cholesterol: 50-55 mg
- Sodium: 300-330 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 13-15 grams
- Protein: 5-6 grams
- Vitamin D: 1-2% DV (Daily Value)
- Calcium: 10-12% DV
- Iron: 6-7% DV
- Potassium: 2-3% DV
Health Information:
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Moderation: Apple and Cheddar Cheese Muffins can be a tasty treat, but they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their moderate calorie and fat content.
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Apples: Apples are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body.
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Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides protein and calcium. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it’s best consumed in limited amounts.
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Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. It’s easy to overindulge in muffins, which can lead to excess calorie intake.
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Added Sugar: These muffins contain added sugar from the granulated sugar in the recipe. Reducing sugar or using natural sweeteners may be a healthier option.
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Fiber: The muffins may contain a small amount of dietary fiber from the apples and the flour used. Fiber is essential for digestive health.
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Sodium: The sodium content in these muffins is moderate. Keep an eye on your overall daily sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.
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Balanced Diet: Enjoy these muffins as part of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Remember that specific nutrition values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used, so it’s a good idea to calculate the nutrition facts based on your specific recipe if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.