These eggless spinach and cheese muffins are savory, soft, and packed with fresh spinach and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for quick breakfasts, lunchboxes, or as a savory snack, these muffins are both satisfying and nutritious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they make for a great grab-and-go meal for kids and adults alike, especially for trips or busy mornings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 tbsp butter
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¾ cup milk (room temperature)
- ½ tbsp vinegar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp red chili powder (or cayenne pepper)
- 1 ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup baby spinach, roughly chopped & tightly packed
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (170°C). Line a muffin tray with muffin liners and set aside.
- Sauté the onion: In a frying pan, melt butter and sauté the red onion until soft and translucent. Let it cool.
- Prepare the wet ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine milk and vinegar, and stir well. Set aside.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cheddar cheese, red chili powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the milk-vinegar mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. The mixture will be a bit dry at first but will bind well as you continue mixing.
- Add the spinach and onion: Stir in the sautéed onion and melted butter into the dough, followed by the chopped spinach. Mix well to combine.
- Scoop and bake: Using an ice cream scoop, scoop the dough into the muffin liners, filling them evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the muffins are golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for later.
Nutrients (Per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 2g
Why You’ll Love These Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins
- Satisfying and Nutritious: The addition of fresh spinach provides a boost of vitamins and minerals, while the cheddar cheese adds protein and flavor, making these muffins filling and energizing.
- Perfect for Breakfast or Snacks: These muffins are a great option for busy mornings when you need something quick and easy, or for an afternoon snack when you’re looking for something savory.
- Egg-Free for Dietary Needs: With a simple substitution, these muffins are egg-free, making them an ideal choice for those with egg allergies or those following a plant-based diet.
- Easy to Make: With only a few simple ingredients, you can quickly prepare these muffins with minimal effort, making them ideal for meal prep or a last-minute snack.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch of these muffins, store them in an airtight container, and enjoy them throughout the week. They hold up well for several days and are just as delicious when reheated.
The Key Ingredients That Make These Muffins Stand Out
The eggless version of these muffins doesn’t sacrifice any of the flavor or texture found in traditional muffins. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that make these muffins so satisfying and delicious:
- Spinach: Fresh spinach is not only nutrient-dense, but it also adds a mild flavor and vibrant green color to the muffins. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, spinach is an excellent way to sneak in some greens without compromising on taste.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar adds a depth of flavor and a bit of tang that pairs perfectly with the earthy spinach. It also contributes to the muffins’ moist texture.
- Red Onion: Sautéed red onion adds a sweet and savory element to the muffins. The soft, caramelized texture of the onion blends beautifully with the spinach and cheese.
- Milk and Vinegar: The combination of milk and vinegar creates a buttermilk-like effect, giving the muffins a moist, tender crumb. The slight acidity of the vinegar also helps balance the richness of the cheese.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents help the muffins rise, creating a fluffy texture without the use of eggs.
- Spices: A touch of red chili powder adds a gentle kick to the muffins, complementing the savory elements. If you prefer a milder taste, you can adjust the amount of chili powder or use cayenne pepper for a more intense heat.
How to Achieve the Perfect Muffin Texture
The texture of these eggless muffins is soft, fluffy, and slightly dense, thanks to the combination of flour, leavening agents, and buttermilk-like milk and vinegar mixture. Here are a few tips for making sure your muffins turn out perfectly:
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When mixing the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until everything is just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense muffins, so be careful not to stir too much.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, let the dough chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld together and can also result in slightly fluffier muffins.
- Check the Muffins Early: Since all ovens vary, start checking your muffins at 28 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center of the muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done. If not, bake for a few more minutes until they’re golden brown and set.
How to Serve and Enjoy These Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins
These muffins are a great all-around meal or snack, and they can be served in a variety of ways:
- Breakfast: Serve these muffins warm with a dollop of butter or a side of scrambled eggs for a satisfying breakfast.
- Lunchbox: Pack them in kids’ lunchboxes for a nutritious snack that’s easy to eat and won’t make a mess.
- Savory Snack: These muffins make an excellent snack for afternoon tea or a light bite before dinner.
- Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed for several days, either on their own or as a side to a soup or salad.
- Pairs Well with Soups and Salads: These muffins make a great addition to a light soup or salad, especially those with a creamy or tangy dressing. Try pairing them with a tomato basil soup or a Greek salad for a balanced meal.
Health Benefits of These Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins
These muffins are not only delicious but also pack a nutritious punch:
- Spinach: High in vitamins A, C, and K, spinach supports immune health, bone health, and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
- Cheddar Cheese: While cheese is calorie-dense, it’s a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12, all of which contribute to bone health, muscle function, and energy production.
- Whole-Grain Flour (Optional): For a healthier alternative, you can replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add more fiber to the muffins, which helps with digestion and blood sugar control.
- Low in Sugar: These muffins are naturally low in sugar, making them a much healthier option compared to most traditional sweet muffins.
Storing and Freezing Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins
These muffins store well and can be easily reheated for later enjoyment:
- Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the muffins in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
- Reheating: Simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Variations and Customizations
While this recipe is already delicious as written, here are some ideas to customize it:
- Add Other Veggies: Feel free to add additional veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to increase the heat level if you prefer a spicier muffin.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley, oregano, or basil, to change up the flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free muffin, substitute the cheese with vegan cheese and use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter alternative.
Why These Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins are a Must-Try
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and a few steps, these muffins come together quickly.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a snack, these muffins are versatile and filling.
- Healthy and Delicious: Packed with spinach, cheese, and fiber, these muffins offer a nutritious and flavorful bite.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or tweak the spices to make these muffins your own.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week for a quick, healthy, and tasty snack.
Conclusion
These Eggless Spinach and Cheese Muffins are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and satisfying, making them a great addition to any meal or snack rotation. With their nutritious ingredients, easy preparation, and delicious flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack, these muffins offer the ideal balance of taste and nutrition. Try them out today and enjoy the convenience and flavor they bring to your kitchen!