Delicious Spinach and Cheese Muffins

Name: Delicious Spinach and Cheese Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 garlic clove, minced

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

I love baking these muffins for brunch or as a quick snack during the week. They’re packed with fresh spinach and gooey cheese, making them both delicious and nutritious. Each bite is fluffy and flavorful, with a hint of garlic that elevates the taste. What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up a batch, and they freeze beautifully! Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated on a busy morning, these muffins are sure to please everyone in the family.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:58:28.017Z

When I first experimented with spinach in muffins, I was pleasantly surprised at how well the flavors blended. The combination of spinach and cheese creates a delightful savory treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. I added a touch of garlic for an extra flavor boost, which makes these muffins hard to resist!

One tip I can share is to make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach before mixing it into the batter. This helps keep the muffins nice and fluffy, rather than heavy and soggy. Perfect for adding to lunch boxes or for a quick breakfast on the go!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Nutritious spinach packed with vitamins
Rich, melted cheese creating a creamy center
Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or snacks

Baking Tips for Perfect Muffins

To ensure your muffins rise beautifully, make sure to not overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to dense and chewy muffins instead of the light, fluffy texture we’re aiming for. Stir until just combined, and if you see a few dry streaks of flour, it’s okay to leave them as is. The lumps will disappear during baking, keeping your muffins airy.

Another critical tip involves aligning your oven temperature. An oven thermometer can be quite handy to ensure your oven is calibrated correctly. Baking these muffins at 375°F (190°C) allows them to bake evenly, giving you a delightful golden color on the outside while maintaining a moist interior. If you notice that muffins are browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature by 25°F and bake a bit longer.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, consider substituting the spinach with other leafy greens like kale or chard. These greens can provide different flavor profiles and textures. For a touch of sweetness, adding some sautéed onions or sun-dried tomatoes can elevate the savory taste, creating a delightful twist. Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference, or try a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

For a dairy-free version, simply replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond or oat milk, and use a substitute cheese or omit it altogether. You can also swap the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to incorporate more fiber, but keep in mind that this can lead to denser muffins, so you may want to increase the liquid slightly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a wholesome muffin experience:

Muffin Ingredients

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/4 cup olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced

Mix these ingredients to create a delightful savory muffin that everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious muffins:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, olive oil, and garlic. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

Add Spinach and Cheese

Fold in the chopped spinach and shredded cheese until well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.

Bake the Muffins

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about three-quarters full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for later!

These muffins are sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some herbs like oregano or thyme to the batter. Also, if you want a cheesy crust, sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking.

Storage and Freezing

These muffins are perfect for meal prep! Once they're completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them into the freezer. Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag; they'll last up to three months. This method prevents freezer burn and ensures they stay fresh.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen muffins, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a freshly-baked taste, you can warm them in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through. This revives their fluffy texture and melts any cheese that may have solidified during freezing.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are incredibly versatile, making them a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack throughout the day. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or soup for a quick lunch. You could also serve them alongside eggs or avocado for a hearty breakfast. Feel free to spread a bit of butter or your favorite condiment on top for an extra layer of flavor.

For a fun twist, try cutting a muffin in half and toasting it lightly under the broiler for an indulgent treat. Add slices of fresh tomatoes, avocados, or even sautéed mushrooms on top for a delightful open-faced sandwich. These muffins also make for excellent picnic fare, providing a satisfying and nutritious bite that travels well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a dairy-free alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.