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Fluffy pull-apart muffin cups topped with melted cheese, herbs, and garlic on a cooling rack. Title: Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Muffin Cups

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Muffin Cups


  • Author: Chef Clara
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 jumbo muffins 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Muffin Cups with layers of buttery dough, sharp cheddar, and garlic herb spread—soft, savory, and perfect for sharing!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm water (120°F–130°F)

  • 2¼ tsp instant yeast

  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 2½ tbsp garlic and herb spread (e.g., Johnnie’s or similar)

  • 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese


Instructions

  • Make the Dough:

    • Mix warm water and sugar in a bowl. Stir in yeast and let sit for 3 minutes until slightly foamy.

    • Add 2 cups of flour and mix to combine. Stir in melted butter, then add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.

    • Knead on a floured surface for 2–3 minutes until smooth.

    • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

  • Shape and Fill:

    • Roll the dough into an 18×13-inch rectangle.

    • Brush with melted butter and spread garlic herb mixture evenly.

    • Cut into six 3-inch strips, sprinkle each with cheddar cheese.

    • Stack the strips, then cut into six equal squares.

    • Place each square stack vertically into a greased jumbo muffin cup.

  • Second Rise:

    • Cover muffin cups and let rise for 40 minutes in a warm spot.

  • Bake:

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Brush the tops with any remaining butter.

    • Bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

 

  • Serve:

    • Let cool slightly. Remove from tin and enjoy warm, pulling apart each cheesy layer.

Notes

  • You can substitute garlic herb butter for spread if needed.
  • Best served fresh but can be reheated for up to 2 days.
  • Perfect as a side for soups, pasta, or holiday spreads.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 1 hr 40 min rise)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American