Your Best Gluten Free Savory Muffins With Ham and Cheese

Gluten-Free Savory Muffins with Ham and Cheese are soft savory cakes, excellent to serve as an appetizer or brunch together with other gluten-free treats.

Also perfect for lactose intolerant people, they are made in just a few minutes with a quick batter made from beaten eggs, lactose-free milk, extra virgin olive oil, rice flour, potato starch and instant yeast. Once you have obtained a creamy and smooth batter, all you have to do is enrich it with cubed ham and lactose-free cheese, then pour it by spoonfuls into a special muffin mold, lined with paper cups, and then cook everything in a fan oven at 338°F/170°C for less than half an hour: the result will be tasty and stringy mini muffins at the heart, ideal to offer also for a buffet dinner or for Sunday brunch with the family.

What Are Gluten Free Savory Muffins?

Savory muffins, like the gluten-free ham and cheese variety, have gained popularity as a delicious alternative to traditional sweet muffins. Originating from the muffin tradition in English-speaking countries, muffins were initially made as small, individual loaves of bread, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. Over time, the concept of muffins expanded to include savory ingredients, reflecting the versatility of the muffin format. These savory versions incorporate ingredients like cured meats, cheeses, and herbs, offering a satisfying, flavorful bite. Often enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or part of a brunch spread, these muffins cater to various dietary needs, making them a hit among gluten-free and lactose-intolerant individuals. The soft, savory fillings—like the melted cheese and ham—combine perfectly with the tender, light muffin texture.

Pro Tips for The Best Gluten Free Savory Muffins

• Gluten-free batters can sometimes be a bit thicker or drier than regular ones. If the batter seems too thick, you can add a small amount of milk or water to reach the right consistency—smooth, but not too runny.
• To ensure light and fluffy muffins, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can result in dense muffins, which is especially important when working with gluten-free flour.
• Preheating the oven ensures that your muffins cook evenly. Set the temperature as specified in the recipe, and let your oven reach the desired temperature before you pop in the muffins.
• Make sure to grease your muffin tin well or use paper liners. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to remove the muffins once baked.
• Test the muffins by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready. Be careful not to overbake them, as this can cause them to dry out.
• Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.

What is The Best Cheese to Use for These Gluten Free Muffins?

The best type of cheese for these muffins is one that melts well and adds rich flavor. Mozzarella is an excellent choice because it melts smoothly and has a mild, creamy taste. Cheddar is also a great option, offering a sharper, more robust flavor. For a balance of both texture and taste, you could even mix the two. Just ensure the cheese is grated to help it melt evenly throughout the muffin.

Can I Add Anything Else to These Gluten Free Muffins?

Yes, you can easily customize these muffins by adding other ingredients to enhance their flavor. Consider incorporating herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a fragrant, savory touch. You could also add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra texture and taste. For a bit of crunch, try adding pine nuts or walnuts.

Can These Muffins Be Made Dairy-Free?

These muffins are already dairy-free, as they use lactose-free ingredients!

How Do I Keep These Muffins Moist and Soft?

To keep these muffins soft and moist, make sure not to overbake them, as this can dry them out. You can also add a little extra moisture to the batter with ingredients like Greek yogurt or sour cream, which will help retain softness. Storing the muffins in an airtight container once cooled will keep them fresh longer. For added moisture, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and heat them briefly in the microwave before serving.

Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?

Yes, these muffins can be made ahead of time. You can bake them, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.

Do These Gluten Free Savory Muffins Freeze Well?

Yes, these muffins freeze well. To freeze them, allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them directly from the freezer in the oven or microwave.

How to Store Gluten Free Savory Muffins

To store leftover muffins, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you plan to eat them within a couple of days, store them at room temperature.

How to Make Gluten Free Savory Muffins

Collect the eggs in a bowl and beat them with the prongs of a fork.

Pour in the milk.

Then the extra virgin olive oil.

Add the salt.

Mix well with a whisk.

Add the sifted rice flour.

Then add the potato starch.

Finish with the instant yeast.

Continue mixing until you obtain a creamy, lump-free batter.

At this point, add the cheese and about half of the diced ham to the prepared mixture.

Mix with a spatula to blend the ingredients.

Flavor with chopped aromatic herbs.

Distribute the mixture by spoonfuls into a muffin tin lined with paper liners.

Sprinkle the surface with the remaining cubed ham and place in a convection oven at 340°F/170°C for approximately 25 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, take the muffins out of the oven and let them cool before unmolding them.

Enjoy!