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.