Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Introduction

Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are the ultimate fusion of buttery croissants and savory muffins, offering a delightful combination of flaky layers, rich cheese, and aromatic garlic. These deliciously savory treats are perfect for any occasion, from a brunch spread to a comforting snack.

I first made these cruffins for a weekend brunch with friends, and they were gone within minutes. The flaky, buttery layers paired with the gooey melted cheese and the subtle hint of garlic made them an instant crowd-pleaser. What’s great about these cruffins is how versatile they are—you can enjoy them as they are or get creative by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost.

The best part? They’re much easier to make than they look! With a little dough rolling and layering, you can create a stunning treat that looks bakery-worthy. Whether you’re baking for a party, a special breakfast, or simply craving a warm, cheesy snack, these cruffins are guaranteed to impress.

Perfect for:

• Brunch gatherings
• Family meals
• Holiday celebrations
• Savory snack lovers
• Cheese and garlic fans

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Here’s why Cheesy Garlic Cruffins will become your new favorite:

• Flaky and Buttery Layers: The dough forms multiple flaky layers, similar to a croissant, creating a light, airy texture.
• Savory and Cheesy: The melted cheese pairs perfectly with the garlic, giving the cruffins a rich, savory flavor.
• Perfectly Balanced: The slight sweetness of the dough contrasts beautifully with the savory cheese and garlic, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Easy to Make: While they look impressive, these cruffins are simple to make with just a few ingredients.
• Versatile: You can customize these cruffins by adding your favorite cheeses or additional herbs for a unique twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 cruffins
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 16g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Garlic Cruffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

• Flour and Baking Powder: These form the base of the cruffins, providing structure and lightness.
• Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating the flaky layers that make cruffins so irresistible.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: The mozzarella adds a melty, gooey texture, while the Parmesan brings a salty, nutty depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a bold, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Milk: Whole milk helps to bind the dough and adds richness to the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Garlic Cruffins:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with muffin liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
4. Add Milk: Gradually add the whole milk to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—just bring the dough together.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches in size.

Assemble the Cruffins:

6. Add Cheese and Garlic: Brush the rolled-out dough with the melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
7. Fold and Cut: Fold the dough in half lengthwise to form a smaller rectangle. Then, slice it into 12 even strips.
8. Shape the Cruffins: Take each strip and twist it into a spiral, then place it in the muffin tin, standing upright. Gently press each spiral into the muffin cup to ensure it holds its shape.
9. Bake: Bake the cruffins in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. The tops should be crisp, and the cheese should be bubbling.
10. Cool and Garnish: Allow the cruffins to cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways:

• As a Brunch Item: Serve these cruffins as part of a savory brunch spread alongside eggs, bacon, or fresh fruit.
• With Soup: Pair with a bowl of tomato soup or any hearty soup for a satisfying meal.
• As a Snack: Enjoy these cruffins as a savory snack any time of day.
• For Parties: They’re perfect for parties or gatherings, as they can be eaten with your hands and are always a crowd-pleaser.
• With Dips: Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a creamy dip for extra flavor.

Additional Tips for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are perfect every time:

• Use Cold Butter: For the best flaky layers, make sure your butter is cold when mixing it into the flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: The key to light, flaky cruffins is not overworking the dough. Mix just enough to bring everything together.
• Shredded Cheese Works Best: Use shredded mozzarella for a melty, gooey filling. Pre-shredded cheese works, but fresh mozzarella is often creamier.
• Add Fresh Herbs: If you like, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
• Serve Warm: These cruffins are best enjoyed warm while the cheese is still melted and the layers are crispy.

Recipe Variations for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins:

• Cheddar and Chive Cruffins: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar and add chopped chives for a different flavor profile.
• Bacon Cheddar Cruffins: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for a smoky, savory twist.
• Spinach and Feta Cruffins: Add cooked spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
• Herbed Garlic Cruffins: Mix in a blend of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary with the garlic for an aromatic boost.
• Cheese and Jalapeño Cruffins: Add sliced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Cream Cheese Stuffed Cruffins: Add a dollop of cream cheese in the center of each cruffin for extra richness.
• Pesto Cruffins: Spread pesto sauce over the dough before adding the cheese for a fresh, herby flavor.
• Mozzarella and Ricotta Cruffins: Mix ricotta with mozzarella for a creamy filling with a slightly tangy taste.
• Cheesy Ham Cruffins: Add diced ham to the filling for a savory, protein-packed cruffin.
• Garlic Parmesan Cruffins: Skip the mozzarella and use a combination of garlic, Parmesan, and butter for a simple yet flavorful cruffin.

Freezing and Storage for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked cruffins before baking. Assemble the cruffins in the muffin tin, cover them with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Special Equipment for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cheesy Garlic Cruffins easier:

• Pastry Cutter: A pastry cutter will help you easily incorporate the cold butter into the flour for flaky layers.
• Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is essential for shaping and baking the cruffins.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin will help you roll out the dough to the perfect size.
• Basting Brush: A brush is perfect for spreading melted butter evenly over the dough.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows the cruffins to cool evenly and stay crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cheesy Garlic Cruffins

1. Can I use pre-made croissant dough?
   Yes, you can substitute pre-made croissant dough for the homemade dough, but the texture might be slightly different.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the cruffins ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked cruffins and bake them later.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or Gruyère for unique flavors.
4. How do I make the cruffins extra flaky?
   Use cold butter and make sure not to overmix the dough. The more layers you create, the flakier the cruffins will be.

Print

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Cruffins are the ultimate fusion of flaky, buttery croissants and savory muffins. With a rich, cheesy filling and the irresistible aroma of garlic, these cruffins are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for brunch, a midday snack, or as a party treat, they deliver bold flavor in every bite while showcasing a beautifully golden, flaky exterior.

This recipe is as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat, offering a creative twist on classic pastries that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven for guests or savoring them all to yourself, these cruffins will satisfy all your savory cravings.

I’d love to see how your Cheesy Garlic Cruffins turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!