Last year, we woke up on Easter morning to discover that the Easter bunny had hidden his brightly colored bounty in the foot of snow that carpeted our backyard. After filling up on warm Hot Cross Buns, muffins and fresh fruit, we bundled the kids up in snow pants and gloves, and lined their baskets with plastic bags to help deal with the inevitable quick melt once the baskets came inside, and sent them off to dig for their eggs. It was not the bright spring day, full of tulips and chirping birds, that we typically hope for in the middle of April, but it certainly made for a memorable Easter Sunday. Really, the kids were not at all concerned that the plastic eggs were half-frozen, as long as those eggs were filled with chocolate and jellybeans.
Considering that our spring this year can only be described as frigid, there is a chance that we will need another hot breakfast to warm us post-hunt. Poached Eggs on Toast with Chipotle Mayo, Bacon and Avocado and Whole Wheat Waffles with Blueberry Maple Sauce are contenders. Whichever recipe wins the majority vote, we will also make a batch of these easy savory muffins to munch on throughout the day.
Now, I realize that smoked salmon and Gorgonzola cheese might sound like an unusual combination. The idea to pair the two popped into my head a few days ago and, try as I might to convince myself to go with the classic match of smoked salmon and dill, I just could not shake the thought of Gorgonzola. Several years ago, I indulged in a pasta dish with smoked salmon and a Gorgonzola cream sauce at a local restaurant. The decadent combination won me over, then took a backseat in my memory until a few days ago. The resulting muffin is tender and full of the rich flavors of a creamy cheese and smoked fish. They are irresistible when served warm with a pat of butter.
The recipe:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a muffin tin with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Add chopped smoked salmon, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chives, and stir to combine.
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, sour cream, egg and melted butter until the mixture is smooth. Fold milk mixture into the flour mixture until combined. The batter will be very thick.
Using a 1/3-cup measuring cup coated in cooking spray, divide the batter between the 12 muffin cups.
Bake until the muffin tops are just starting to brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs attached, about 25 minutes.
Let the muffins cool in the pan, about 5 minutes, and then remove from pan and let cool for 5 additional minutes before serving.
Other savory muffin and biscuit recipes:
Cookin’ Canuck’s Cream Biscuits with Prosciutto & Parmesan Cheese
Cookin’ Canuck’s Caramelized Onion & Spinach Olive Oil Quick Bread
Dorie Greenspan’s Bacon-Cheddar Quick Bread with Dried Pears
The Skinny Gourmet’s Olive & Artichoke Savory Quiche Muffins
Worth the Whisk’s Savory Cheese Biscuits with Yogurt
Smoked Salmon & Gorgonzola Savory Muffins
Basic savory muffin recipe adapted from America’s Test Kitchen
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp baking powder
3/4 tps salt
4 oz. smoked salmon, roughly chopped
4 oz. Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled (about 1 cup)
3 tbsp finely chopped chives
1 1/4 cups 2% milk
3/4 cup sour cream
1 egg
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a muffin tin with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Add chopped smoked salmon, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese and chives, and stir to combine.
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, sour cream, egg and melted butter until the mixture is smooth. Fold milk mixture into the flour mixture until combined. The batter will be very thick.
Using a 1/3-cup measuring cup coated in cooking spray, divide the batter between the 12 muffin cups.
Bake until the muffin tops are just starting to brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few crumbs attached, about 25 minutes.
Let the muffins cool in the pan, about 5 minutes, and then remove from pan and let cool for 5 additional minutes before serving.
Makes 12 muffins
Maris (In Good Taste) says
I think its a wonderful combination. The muffins look delicious and those kids are adorable! Happy Easter!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Maris. I was really pleased with how the combination turned out in real life (not just in my head).
Greedy Rosie says
They look AMAZING. I’m not a huge fan of Gorgonzola normally, but I’m sure I’d enjoy it in these muffins – sounds like it would combine really well with the salmon
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Rosie, while you can taste the Gorgonzola in these muffins, it is not overpowering.
claudia lamascolo/aka pegasuslegend says
Those children are what its all about, the memories shared, smiling faces, what a precious post and family…. have a fabulous EASTER~
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
You’re absolutely right, Claudia. The kids had a ball!
Heather says
Oh my goodness. This has to be the best muffin ever! I would have never thought that smoked salmon could be added to a muffin. Brilliant.
Your boys are so darling. 🙂
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Heather. Savory muffins are a favorite of mine and this one certainly raised the bar for us.
Emily @Cleanliness says
Those are GORGEOUS.
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Emily.
Lori @ RecipeGirl says
Snow on Easter?! Blasphemous. We have to put on sunscreen around here 😉 The Easter bunny no longer exists in my house (I’ve been found out), but I’ll still deliver the goods.
These look delicious for brunch.
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
You’re right, it is blasphemous. I’m surprised the Easter bunny agrees to work under such conditions. =)
marla says
Dara, your boys are darling with their Easter baskets in the snow!!! These savory muffins sound wonderful & I am encouraged to try a version over here. xo
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Marla. I would love to see your version (no doubt healthier than mine).
Jenny Flake says
DELICIOUS!! I want for breakfast!!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Oh, and I did have one for breakfast.
Jenny @ Fitness Health and Food says
oh wow those look AMAZING!
I love smoked salmon but have always been worried about baking with is – as it could lose its lovely moist deliciousness. But I will have to give these a try! 🙂
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
I think that because the smoked salmon was mixed into the batter, rather than laying on top of the muffins, it didn’t dry out at all.
Maria says
I love savory muffins. These look fantastic. Cute boys:)
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Maria.
Christina of Form V Artisan says
Well well….a fellow (former) Canadian! How lovely!
I’m lovin’ the killer food shots you have on this site….and the braised leeks with pepper cream sauce and capers??? Pa-leeeaaase!
Laura says
I always like to add something fun and unexpected to a traditional holiday menu. These savory muffins will be perfect for Easter! Then again, I can also see them served with a standing rib roast. I think they’ll be a hit!
Aimee @ Simple Bites says
Smoked salmon is a favorite of ours – even my little guys love it. Fantastic muffins!
Wenderly says
Love that combo! They look so gorgeous too…those colors are spectacular! Happy Easter to you & your darling family Dara!
Delishhh says
OH MY – There look amazing. Never thought of putting salmon in my muffin but what a great idea.
Sukaina says
Come rain or shine, kids always seem to have fun eh?! I hope this Easter is fabulous for you and your family. I’m sure with muffins like these for breakfast, everyone’s day will be brightened up 🙂
Brooks at Cakewalker says
Dara, these fabulous muffins have me over the moon! To behold these flavor profiles in one sumptuous treat must be spellbinding…I’m thinking Easter brunch, that is, if I don’t try them right away. I’d be remiss if I didn’t say what handsome lads you have. I’m sure you’ll agree there’s only one thing greater than cooking and that’s raising children 🙂
RavieNomNoms says
Those are such a great muffin. You know I never really think about savory muffins and then when I see them they always look so great…this looks awesome!
fooddreamer says
You had me at smoked salmon, I am a huge fan. Hope your Easter morn isn’t quite as chilly as last year!
Nutmeg Nanny says
Oh my! These little savory muffins look amazing!
Katrina says
Very cool idea! I’ve never heard of a “salmonized” muffin before!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Love your new word. I may have to use that.
Cathy R says
YUM! Now you’ve got me hoping my guys have a bountiful salmon fishing season. Printing away :).
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Lucky you to have the promise of fresh salmon. What a treat!
Amanda says
Wow! I want one now!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Amanda.
Rosie @ Sweetapolita says
Dara, I have no idea how I missed these, but they are incredible! I’m not always drawn to savory baked goods, but these are really special. Love the photos, and the boys are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing! xo
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thank you, Rosie. I had a lot of fun dreaming these up.
Maria @ Scandifoodie says
These look delicious, I love savoury muffins!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
I feel the same way, Maria.
sippitysup says
I am sure the kids loved that special Easter, GREG
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
They did indeed, though they are definitely hoping for some sunshine this year.
Miss @ Miss in the Kitchen says
We get smoked salmon from hunters that come to our ranch from Washington and I love it. I will be trying this very soon! Scrumptious!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Lucky you! I think I need to come and visit your ranch.
Barbara | VinoLuciStyle says
I love the combination of ingredients Dara; I’ve made a quiche with similar ingredients and it was a hit. Boys do look cute; we’ve had Easter’s like that in Colorado too!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Barb. These flavors would be wonderful in a quiche.
Tracy says
I love a good savory muffin and these sound perfect!!
Dara (Cookin' Canuck) says
Thanks, Tracy.
Tracey says
What an interesting combination of flavors – I’m so intrigued! I bet these would be a big hit at our Mother’s Day brunch this year. Can’t wait to give them a try!
Jane - Kitchen Stools Direct says
What a unique combination! Smoked salmon and Gorgonzola cheese sounds exotic. Must try this out soon. Great pictures!
Deborah says
Oh my goodness – can you please send one (or a dozen!) of those down my way???
HeatherChristo says
great combination! I love the new way of thinking about the salmon, would not have thought to bake it in!
Jean says
These savory muffins would be wonderful to eat any time of the day. Yum!
Your boys are adorable, too. 🙂
Jennifer (Savor) says
How can you expect me to pay attention to the muffins when you have cute boys holding baskets in the snow? You are asking too much 😉
Belinda @zomppa says
A cold Easter! An interesting combination, but one I’m totally on board with!
Shaina says
These are just genius, Dara!
Michelle (What's Cooking with Kids) says
Oh Dara – these are stunning! Love your photos here – they make me want to reach into my screen for a bite 🙂
Rochelle says
I’m drooling here! And I have all the ingredients to be able to make these at the moment!
Gillian says
These look great a combination of flavoures I have to try. But I also wanted to say Go Canuks Go!
Parsley Sage says
Genius! These look absolutely incredible. I love the flavor pairing. Not enough muffins have salmon 🙂 Thanks so much for sharing!
Matthew Kadey says
I make a lot of muffins but I’ve never thought of incorporating theses two main players. Great inspiration.
SeattleDee says
I DO love savory things, and these muffins sound divine. They will be a terrific replacement for the usual bagels and lox tomorrow morning. Thanks for the inspiration.
Lana @ Never Enough Thyme says
I love savory muffins and I adore Gorgonzola, so I know these are going to be a huge hit here. Great recipe, Dara!
Michelle @ Brown Eyed Baker says
These muffins look absolutely incredible Dara! I could totally have gone for one at breakfast!
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc. says
This looks wonderful!
Aggie says
What a treat!! My husband loves smoked salmon (and so do I)…I have to surprise him with these. Such cute photo of your kids 🙂
Laurie says
Oh my stars this looks good. I’m going to try this for Easter!
Dee says
This great! I am having a special sunday Easter Linky buffet Any Easter recipe accepted no limit to what you like to submit. I am taking submissions till saturday, your welcome to post this! http://deedeesdelights.blogspot.com/p/special-easter-sunday-buffet.html
JulieD says
I love smoked salmon…what a wonderful blend of flavors. These muffins are just gorgeous!
Megan says
This sounds like a wonderful little muffin. Bookmarked! I’m thinking it would be a great tea party muffin.
make my day says
Fantastic! have been trawling blogs and the web for a savoury muffin….Perfect! cheers kari
Amy says
Made these last night and just had one for breakfast. Wonderful! Have you calculated the nutritional stats?