Save Savory, cheesy muffin balls with a spicy kick and a hint of ranch flavor—perfect as a snack, appetizer, or party treat.
The first time I made these muffin balls, they disappeared faster than I expected. My friends kept asking for the recipe after a game night, and now they're a staple for gatherings.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (180 g)
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Ranch seasoning mix: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ tsp
- Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: 1 ½ cups (150 g)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: ¼ cup (25 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Buttermilk: ⅔ cup (160 ml)
- Unsalted butter, melted: ¼ cup (60 ml)
- Pickled jalapeños, finely chopped: 2 tbsp
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne.
- Add cheeses:
- Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese to the bowl and toss to coat in the flour mixture.
- Blend wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until combined.
- Combine mixtures:
- Pour wet mixture into dry and stir until just combined.
- Fold in add-ins:
- Gently mix in chopped jalapeños and chives (if using). Do not overmix.
- Portion the dough:
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to make 1½-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet or in mini muffin tins.
- Bake:
- Bake for 16–18 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Serve:
- Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Save My kids love helping shape the muffin balls, and it has become a fun family tradition before hosting friends or on weekend afternoons.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet or mini muffin tin, parchment paper (optional), cookie scoop or spoon make prep easy.
Nutritional Information
Each muffin ball has about 85 calories, 5 g total fat, 7 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Try serving with ranch dip or spicy aioli, and swap cheddar for pepper jack to vary flavor.
Save Make a batch ahead for easy entertaining; these savory bites stay delicious even at room temperature.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make these muffin balls spicier?
Yes, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add more pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
- → Which cheeses work best in this dish?
Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor, but you can swap for pepper jack or add Parmesan for added depth.
- → What is a good dipping sauce for these?
Serve with ranch dip, spicy aioli, or sour cream for a tasty pairing.
- → Can I freeze the muffin balls?
Absolutely! Freeze them and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warmed through.
- → Do I need a mini muffin tin?
No, you can use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape dough into balls for baking.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these muffin balls use vegetarian ingredients like cheese, eggs, and flour.