Maple Bourbon Cheddar Muffin Pops (Printer View)

Savory-sweet cheddar muffin pops with chili, maple, and bourbon. Great for snacks or party bites.

# Components:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Wet Ingredients

07 - 2 large eggs
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
10 - 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
11 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

→ Cheddar Mix

12 - 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped

→ For Baking & Serving

14 - Cooking spray or melted butter for greasing pan
15 - 18 sturdy lollipop sticks or wooden skewers

# Method:

01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease an 18-cup mini muffin tin with cooking spray or melted butter.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, chili flakes, and ground black pepper until evenly distributed.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the whole milk, pure maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, and melted unsalted butter; whisk until smooth and well blended.
04 - Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender texture.
05 - Fold in the grated sharp cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives so they are evenly incorporated.
06 - Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each approximately three-quarters full.
07 - Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin pop comes out clean.
08 - Allow muffin pops to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack.
09 - While still slightly warm, insert a lollipop stick or skewer into the center of each muffin pop. Serve warm or at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy to serve and eat as fun appetizers
  • Customizable spice level for every palate
02 -
  • Contains wheat, milk, eggs, and alcohol unless substituted
  • Use apple juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic version
03 -
  • For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne
  • Try smoked gouda or pepper jack for a new flavor profile