Cheddar, Bacon & Chive Savory Muffins

Method

1. 01

   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease the cups.

2. 02

   In a large bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and sugar.

3. 03

   Stir in the grated cheddar, chopped bacon (reserve 2 tbsp for topping), and chopped chives to coat in the dry mix—this helps prevent sinking.

4. 04

   In a separate bowl whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until combined.

5. 05

   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined; batter should be lumpy—do not overmix.

6. 06

   Spoon batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Sprinkle reserved bacon and a few extra chives on top of each muffin.

7. 07

   Bake for 20–25 minutes, until tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

8. 08

   Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Brush tops with a little olive oil or melted butter if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.