Golden Crust Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds – the irresistible aroma of garlic and rosemary with the convenience and versatility of muffins. The golden crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the fluffy center melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving these at a family dinner, a gathering, or simply craving something homemade and flavorful, these focaccia muffins will be a hit. Plus, the addition of rosemary makes them stand out from your typical savory muffin, giving them a sophisticated touch.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ cup olive oil

• ¾ cup whole milk

• 2 large eggs

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for topping)

• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, milk, and eggs until well combined.

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

5. Fold in the minced garlic and chopped rosemary, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ of the way full.

7. If desired, sprinkle each muffin with grated Parmesan cheese and coarse sea salt for an extra touch of flavor.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins, making it perfect for a small group or family gathering. The total time required is about 30 minutes, with 10 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Cheese Lovers: Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the batter for a cheesy version.

• Herb Infusion: Try swapping rosemary for thyme, oregano, or basil for a different flavor profile.

• Garlic Butter Topping: After baking, brush the tops of the muffins with melted garlic butter for an extra rich and savory finish.

• Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute and use a non-dairy milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

To store, keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you'd like to keep them for longer, freeze them in a resealable bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm the muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make these focaccia muffins in advance?

Yes, you can make them up to 1 day ahead and store them at room temperature. They’re even better after the flavors have had time to meld!

2. Can I freeze these focaccia muffins?

Absolutely! Allow the muffins to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh rosemary?

Yes, dried rosemary works as a substitute, but you’ll need to use a little less – about 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary to replace 2 tablespoons of fresh.

4. How can I make the muffins fluffier?

For fluffier muffins, be sure not to overmix the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined, and be careful not to overwork the dough.

5. Can I make these muffins without garlic?

If you're not a fan of garlic, simply omit it. The rosemary still provides great flavor, and you could try adding other herbs like thyme or oregano instead.

6. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

7. How can I make these muffins spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.

8. Can I add vegetables to these muffins?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers would be a delicious addition to the batter.

9. How can I ensure a golden crust on the muffins?

To achieve a golden crust, be sure to bake the muffins until the tops are firm and slightly browned. A sprinkle of coarse salt on top before baking helps too.

10. Can I substitute the olive oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter, although the flavor will vary slightly.

Conclusion

Golden Crust Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins are a perfect blend of savory flavors and fluffy texture, ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying them as a snack, these muffins are sure to become a favorite. With the ability to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, you can easily make them your own.