A Deliciously Healthy Snack Recipe
These Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Muffins are a healthy, flavorful snack perfect for any time of the day. Made with fresh grated zucchini, Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and a blend of aromatic spices, these muffins are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are easy to prepare, bake quickly, and make a delightful low-fat savory treat suitable for vegetarians.
- Author: Caleb
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Herbs (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Preparing the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Grate the zucchinis using a box grater or food processor, preferably with the large holes for good texture. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid sogginess in the muffins.
- Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
- Combining the Wet Ingredients: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk until frothy to incorporate air for rise. Add the milk and olive oil, whisking thoroughly. Finely chop and add fresh parsley if using.
- Bringing It All Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and gently fold together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are fine. Fold in the grated zucchini, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella cheese to add flavor and richness.
- Preparing the Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or line with paper liners for easy removal and cleanup.
- Filling the Muffin Cups: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly on top of each muffin to create a crispy topping.
- Baking the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check at 20 minutes; they are done when golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling and Serving: Remove the muffins from the oven and let cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely to prevent sogginess. Serve warm or at room temperature as a snack, side dish, or breakfast item. Optionally, top with sour cream or yogurt.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil inside a freezer bag for up to a month.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat muffins in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through before serving.
Notes
- Removing excess moisture from grated zucchini is essential to prevent soggy muffins.
- Using a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella adds both sharpness and melty texture.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- Breadcrumb topping creates a delightful crispy crust after baking.
- These muffins can be customized with herbs like fresh basil or thyme for extra flavor.
- Gluten-free flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour to make them gluten-free, but baking times may vary slightly.
- For dairy-free versions, use non-dairy milk and omit cheese or use plant-based cheese alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Zucchini muffins, Parmesan muffins, healthy snack, savory muffins, baked zucchini snack, vegetarian muffins, low-fat snack