Save Soft savory muffin balls loaded with melty cheese and a lively hit of jalapeño. Using soda in the batter makes these balls tender and light. They're perfect for sharing as a snack or a zesty side dish.
The first time I made these muffin balls for a potluck, guests kept asking for the recipe and grabbing seconds. They disappeared almost instantly! Baking with soda really elevates the crumb and keeps them moist for hours.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
- Jalapeños, seeded and finely diced: 2 medium
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/4 cup (60 g)
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Egg: 1 large
- Lemon-lime soda (e.g. Sprite or 7UP), room temperature: 1 cup (240 ml)
Instructions
- Prepare equipment:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a mini muffin tin.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk flour baking powder baking soda salt and garlic powder.
- Add cheese & jalapeño:
- Fold in shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños until evenly mixed.
- Prepare wet mixture:
- In another bowl whisk melted butter sour cream and egg until smooth.
- Combine:
- Add wet mixture to dry ingredients pouring in soda last. Gently mix with spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Portion and bake:
- Use ice cream scoop or spoon to portion 18 mounds onto sheet or muffin tin. Bake 16–18 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and serve:
- Cool slightly and serve warm.
Save Making these with my family is a treat especially because everyone likes to customize their muffin balls with a little extra cheese or spice. They always bring laughter and requests for second helpings around our table.
Serving & Pairings
Serve these muffin balls with ranch or herbed cream cheese for dipping. They pair well with BBQ mains or as a game-day snack platter.
Variations
For extra spice leave seeds in the jalapeños or swap cheddar for pepper jack. Try mozzarella for a milder version.
Nutrition Facts
Each muffin ball delivers about 110 calories 6 g fat 11 g carbs and 3 g protein making them a satisfying vegetarian option for snacks or sides.
Save Enjoy these savory bites straight from the oven. They'll bring zesty flavor and pillowy texture to any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these without sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt makes a good substitute for sour cream to maintain moisture and texture.
- → Are these spicy?
They have a mild kick from jalapeño, but you can leave seeds in for extra spice or add cayenne.
- → Which cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar melts well and adds great flavor, but pepper jack or mozzarella are tasty alternatives.
- → Can I freeze muffin balls?
Yes. Cool them fully, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven for best texture.
- → What soda should I use?
Lemon-lime sodas like Sprite or 7UP keep the muffins airy and add mild sweetness.
- → How do I serve them?
Serve warm for best flavor, alone or with dips such as ranch or herbed cream cheese for extra taste.