Cheesy cauliflower muffins

Cheesy cauliflower muffins are a healthy snack packed with the goodness of cauliflower and sweet potato, complemented by cheddar and parmesan. They're easy to prepare, making them a great addition to breakfast or as a portable bite.

20 Jan 2026
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cauliflower
1 short spray cooking spray oil
2 cups self-raising flour
1 sweet potato
1 tbsp mustard
1/3 cup cheddar cheese
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup chives
1/3 cup olive oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg
1 tbsp bread crumbs

Cheesy Cauliflower Muffins are a delightful twist on traditional muffins, bringing a healthy and savory touch to your breakfast or snack time. Packed with nutritious cauliflower, sweet potato, and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheeses, these muffins offer a tasty way to sneak more veggies into your diet. Perfect for meal prep or a quick bite on-the-go!

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Lightly spray a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray oil. Alternatively, you can use paper muffin liners.

2. Prepare the Cauliflower:
- Steam the cauliflower florets until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift the self-raising flour to remove any lumps.

4. Prepare the Sweet Potato:
- Add the grated sweet potato to the bowl with the flour and mix to combine.

5. Combine Cheeses and Chives:
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped chives to the flour mixture. Stir to combine evenly.

6. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, buttermilk, mustard, and beaten egg until well combined.

7. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Pour the liquid mixture into the flour mixture. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

8. Add Cauliflower:
- Gently fold in the steamed cauliflower florets into the batter.

9. Fill Muffin Cups:
- Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin cups.

10. Top with Bread Crumbs:
- Sprinkle a little bit of bread crumbs on top of each muffin for an extra crunchy texture.

11. Bake:
- Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

12. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Cheesy Cauliflower Muffins are not only delicious but also nutrient-packed, making them a perfect option for any meal of the day. They are simple to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later. Enjoy these muffins as part of a balanced diet and revel in their comforting, cheesy goodness.

Cheesy cauliflower muffins FAQ:

What is the baking time for cheesy cauliflower muffins?

Bake the muffins in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes. They are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How can I tell if the muffins are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the muffins are ready. They should also be golden brown on the top.

Can I store leftover cheesy cauliflower muffins?

Yes, store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly before freezing.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

What if I have dietary restrictions regarding cheese?

For dairy-free options, you can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast, adjusting the quantities to taste. Ensure all other ingredients are compatible with your dietary needs.

Tips:

- Ensure the cauliflower and sweet potato are finely grated or chopped to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.

- For a gluten-free option, you can substitute self-raising flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the mixture.

- Using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese can enhance the flavor and melt more smoothly.

- If you are short on time, you can use pre-cooked cauliflower rice and store-bought grated sweet potato.

- Don't over-mix the batter; mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.

- Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition per serving

10 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 2.56g
Sugar 1.94g
Fat 11g

Cheesy cauliflower muffins