Zaatar muffins are a delicious and savory Mediterranean-style treat, perfect for gatherings, breakfast, lunch, or a quick bite on the go. They are flavorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal choice for meal prep. You can bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you need a satisfying snack. Their rich, herby flavor pairs beautifully with labneh and a warm cup of tea, creating a comforting and wholesome meal. Whether you’re rushing out the door or sitting down for a leisurely breakfast, these muffins are the perfect way to start your day.
Zaatar Muffins Ingredients
–Flour: The base of the muffins, giving them structure and a soft, fluffy texture. You can use all-purpose flour or a mix of whole wheat for added fiber.
– Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture and richness to the muffins.
Olive Oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and keeps the muffins moist and tender. It also enhances the Mediterranean taste.
–Warm Milk: Helps create a smooth batter and contributes to the muffins soft texture. Using warm milk helps activate the baking powder for a better rise.
–Sugar: A small amount balances the savory flavors and enhances the overall taste.
–Baking Powder: A key leavening agent that makes the muffins rise and gives them a light, airy texture.
–Salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures the muffins aren’t bland.
–Zaatar: The star ingredient, adding a bold, earthy, and tangy flavor. You can use powdered zaatar for a smoother texture or fresh zaatar leaves for a more vibrant, herby taste.
–Sliced Olives: Contribute a briny, salty bite that complements the zaatar beautifully. Green or black olives both work well.
–Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the muffins, making them rich and slightly stretchy. It also helps balance the strong flavors of the zaatar and olives.
–Cream Cheese or feta cheese cut into small cubes: cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast. Feta brings a saltier, crumbly texture, while cream cheese gives a smooth, rich taste.
–sesame seeds: Â Sprinkled on top before baking, they add a subtle crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor.
–sumac: A final touch of sumac gives the muffins a bright, citrusy tang that enhances the zaatar flavor.
How to make Zaatar muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to a moderate heat (about 380°F or 190°C) and allow it to warm up while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tray
Grease a muffin tray with olive oil and lightly sprinkle some flour over it to prevent sticking. You can also use muffin liners for easy cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and olive oil until well combined and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Add the Zaatar, Baking Powder, and Milk
Stir in the zaatar (either fresh or powdered), baking powder, and warm milk. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Fold in the Cheese, Olives, and Flour
Gently add the mozzarella cheese, cream cheese (or feta), and sliced olives. Gradually fold in the flour, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tray
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising, then top it with sesame seed and a sprinkle of sumac.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Serve warm with a side of labneh and a cup of tea. Enjoy!
How to store Zaatar muffins
1. Storing at Room Temperature
-If you plan to eat the muffins within 1 day, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
-Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
2. Storing in the Refrigerator
For longer freshness, store the muffins in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap to keep them from drying out.
To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.
3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to keep the muffins for a longer period, freeze them for up to 3 months.
First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
To thaw, leave them at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave them for 20 to 30 seconds.
frequently asked questions
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the muffins may be slightly denser. For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
2. Can I make these muffins without eggs?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with yogurt or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg). The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
3. Can I use fresh zaatar instead of powdered zaatar?
Yes, fresh zaatar adds a more vibrant, herby taste. If using fresh leaves, finely chop them before adding them to the batter.
4. What kind of olives should I use?
Both green and black olives work well. Green olives add a tangier flavor, while black olives provide a milder, slightly sweeter taste.
5. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins store well and can be made in advance. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to five days.
6. How do I reheat the muffins?
Reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds.
7. Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes! Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.
8. What can I serve with zaatar muffins?
They pair beautifully with labneh, cream cheese, hummus, or even a drizzle of olive oil. A warm cup of tea or coffee makes the perfect accompaniment.
Tips and Tricks
1. Don’t Overmix the Batter
To keep your muffins light and fluffy, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture.
2. Warm the Milk for a Better Texture
Adding warm milk helps create a smoother batter and allows the baking powder to activate properly, giving the muffins a nice rise.
3. Grease and Flour the Muffin Tray
To prevent sticking, always grease the muffin cups with olive oil and lightly dust them with flour.
4. Add Fresh Zaatar for an Herbal Boost
While powdered zaatar works well, fresh zaatar leaves add a more vibrant flavor. If using fresh leaves, finely chop them before mixing them into the batter.
5. Choose the Right Cheese
For a gooey, melty texture, mozzarella is a great choice. If you prefer a tangier taste, go for feta or cream cheese. Mixing both creates a rich, balanced flavor.
6. Fill the Muffin Cups Just Right
For evenly baked muffins, fill each cup about ¾ full.
7. Check for Doneness the Right Way
To make sure your muffins are fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready!
8. Let Them Cool Before Serving
Although its tempting to eat them right away, allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to remove from the tray.
9. Store and Reheat Like a Pro
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.
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Zaatar Muffins
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1¼ cup warm milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp zaatar
- ½ cup sliced olives
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese cut into small cubes or feta cheese
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds for topping
- 1c tbsp sumac for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 380°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and olive oil.
- Add the zaatar, baking powder, and warm milk, and mix well.
- Fold in the cheese, olives, and flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Grease a muffin tray with olive oil and lightly sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking.
- Fill each muffin cup with the batter, about ¾ full then add on top sesame seeds and a sprinkle of sumac.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and transfer the muffins to a cooling rack.
- Serve warm with a cup of tea. Enjoy!
Notes
To keep your muffins light and fluffy, mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough texture. 2. Use High-Quality Olive Oil
Since olive oil is a key ingredient, choose a good-quality one for the best flavor. A rich, extra virgin olive oil enhances the Mediterranean taste. 3. Warm the Milk for a Better Texture
Adding warm milk helps create a smoother batter and allows the baking powder to activate properly, giving the muffins a nice rise. 4. Grease and Flour the Muffin Tray
To prevent sticking, always grease the muffin cups with olive oil and lightly dust them with flour. If you prefer, use muffin liners for easy removal. 5. Add Fresh Zaatar for an Herbal Boost
While powdered zaatar works well, fresh zaatar leaves add a more vibrant flavor. If using fresh leaves, finely chop them before mixing them into the batter. 6. Choose the Right Cheese
For a gooey, melty texture, mozzarella is a great choice. If you prefer a tangier taste, go for feta or cream cheese. Mixing both creates a rich, balanced flavor. 7. Fill the Muffin Cups Just Right
For evenly baked muffins, fill each cup about ¾ full. This leaves enough room for the batter to rise without overflowing. 8. Check for Doneness the Right Way
To make sure your muffins are fully baked, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready! 9. Let Them Cool Before Serving
Although its tempting to eat them right away, allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to remove from the tray. 10. Store and Reheat Like a Pro Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, warm them in the oven for a few minutes or microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. If you want to store them longer, freeze them and thaw when needed.