Description
These Cheddar Apple Cornbread Muffins with Maple Sage Butter combine the sweetness of caramelized apples and rich cheddar cheese in a moist cornbread base, topped with a fragrant and creamy maple sage butter. Perfectly balanced with savory and sweet flavors, these muffins make a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Muffins
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz apples, diced
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup medium stone ground cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup neutral-flavored oil
- 1 cup milk
- 6 oz shredded cheddar cheese
Maple Sage Butter
- 2 sticks butter, softened
- 12 large sage leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with oil or line it with parchment muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Caramelize Apples: In a sauté pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced apples and a pinch of salt, then sauté for 5-6 minutes until the apples are slightly caramelized and softened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Whisk in the neutral-flavored oil and milk until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk gently until the batter is smooth. Carefully fold in the caramelized apples and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fill Muffin Tin and Bake: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Maple Sage Butter: While the muffins bake, place the softened butter, finely chopped sage leaves, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt in a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Whip on medium speed until the mixture is well combined, creamy, and fluffy.
- Serve: Keep the maple sage butter at room temperature for easy spreading. Serve warm or at room temperature with the muffins for a delicious flavor boost.
Notes
- Ensure apples are finely diced for even caramelization and distribution in the batter.
- If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can whip the maple sage butter by hand using a fork or hand mixer.
- Use a neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil to avoid overpowering the muffin flavors.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter and milk with a plant-based milk alternative.
- Storing leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days is best; slightly warm before serving.