Mufgels: The Bagel-Muffin Hybrid That Will Blow Your Mind!
Are you torn between the comforting carbiness of a bagel and the convenient portability of a muffin? Do you crave that chewy, slightly dense texture with a burst of savory flavor? Well, prepare to have your culinary world rocked! Introducing the **Mufgel**, a revolutionary baked good that’s taking the breakfast (and lunch, and snack) world by storm.
What exactly *is* a Mufgel? Simply put, it’s a muffin that tastes like a fully loaded bagel. Think of it as a bagel’s sophisticated, more easily manageable cousin. You get all the delicious bagel flavors you love – everything bagel seasoning, cheddar cheese, jalapenos, cream cheese swirls – baked into a soft, moist muffin. No more struggling with awkwardly sized bagels or messy toppings that slide off with every bite. The Mufgel is here to streamline your savory baked good experience.
This recipe will guide you through creating your own batch of utterly irresistible Mufgels. We’ll cover everything from the base muffin batter to the crucial bagel-inspired toppings and additions, ensuring that your Mufgels are a perfect symphony of texture and taste.
## Why You’ll Love Mufgels
* **Flavor Explosion:** Every bite is packed with the familiar and comforting flavors of your favorite bagel.
* **Convenient and Portable:** Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts, lunchbox treats, or a quick snack.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal preferences – add different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Make a big batch and freeze them for a grab-and-go breakfast option any time.
* **Impressive and Unique:** A guaranteed conversation starter at brunches and potlucks.
## The Ultimate Mufgel Recipe
This recipe provides a base for delicious everything bagel-flavored Mufgels. Feel free to experiment with different flavors by substituting the cheese, spices, and additions. Detailed instructions are below; the ingredients list follows.
**Yields:** 12 Mufgels
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Bake time:** 20-25 minutes
### Equipment
* 12-cup muffin tin
* Muffin liners (optional, but recommended for easier cleanup)
* Large mixing bowl
* Small mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Whisk
* Rubber spatula
### Ingredients
**For the Mufgels:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar added and left to sit for 5 minutes)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped green onions
**For the Everything Bagel Topping:**
* 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
**Optional Additions:**
* 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon
* 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos (for a spicy kick)
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for cream cheese swirls – see instructions below)
### Instructions
**Get Started:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well with cooking spray. Using liners makes removing mufgels from the tin much easier.
**Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, as this is crucial for a good rise.
**Combine the Wet Ingredients:**
3. In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. It’s important to let the butter cool slightly so it doesn’t cook the eggs when you add them.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Then, stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, contributing to the overall flavor profile. If you don’t have buttermilk, the milk/lemon juice or vinegar mixture works well as a substitute.
**Combine Wet and Dry:**
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough muffins. A few streaks of flour are okay at this point.
**Add the Cheese and Green Onions:**
6. Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions until evenly distributed throughout the batter. These additions provide that classic savory bagel flavor.
**Optional: Cream Cheese Swirls:**
7. If you’re adding cream cheese swirls, dollop a spoonful of softened cream cheese into the center of each muffin cup. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain distinct swirls.
**Fill the Muffin Tin:**
8. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
**Prepare the Everything Bagel Topping:**
9. In a small bowl, beat one large egg. This will be used as an egg wash to help the everything bagel seasoning adhere to the tops of the mufgels.
10. Brush the tops of each mufgel with the beaten egg wash. Be sure to cover the entire surface for even seasoning coverage.
11. Generously sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the egg-washed tops of the mufgels. Don’t be shy – this is where you get that signature bagel flavor!
**Bake the Mufgels:**
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The mufgels should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched.
**Cool and Enjoy:**
13. Let the mufgels cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
14. Serve warm or at room temperature. These are fantastic on their own or with a smear of cream cheese.
## Variations and Tips for Perfect Mufgels
* **Cheese Variations:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack, for unique flavor combinations.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add chopped bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Savory Herbs:** Freshly chopped herbs like chives, dill, or parsley can add a burst of freshness.
* **Chocolate Chip Mufgels (a Sweet and Savory Twist!):** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) to the batter for a surprisingly delicious sweet and savory combination.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for binding.
* **Vegan Mufgels:** Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and the buttermilk with non-dairy milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar. Use vegan cheese.
* **Freezing Instructions:** To freeze mufgels, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or microwave them for a few seconds until warmed through.
* **Preventing Soggy Bottoms:** Ensure the mufgels are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container. Placing a paper towel in the container can also help absorb excess moisture.
* **Getting the Perfect Rise:** Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and lead to tough muffins.
* **Adjusting Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet mufgel, reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 cup. For a sweeter mufgel, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar.
## Serving Suggestions
Mufgels are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
* **Breakfast:** Serve warm with a smear of cream cheese, butter, or avocado.
* **Lunch:** Pack them in a lunchbox for a quick and satisfying meal.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as an afternoon pick-me-up.
* **Brunch:** Add them to your brunch spread for a unique and crowd-pleasing option.
* **Appetizer:** Slice them in half and top them with various spreads, such as smoked salmon, hummus, or tapenade.
* **Soup or Salad Side:** Serve them alongside a bowl of soup or a fresh salad.
## Mufgels: A Delicious Culinary Adventure
The Mufgel is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. With its endless possibilities for customization and its irresistible flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of the Mufgel!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to deliver delicious results. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and additions to create your own signature Mufgel. The possibilities are endless!
Happy baking, and enjoy your Mufgels!