Gluten-Free Apple Thyme Savory Muffins
These savory muffins combine tart apples and aromatic thyme in a protein-rich, gluten-free package that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or alongside your favorite soup. With 40% less sugar than traditional sweet muffins, they offer a complex flavor profile that showcases how versatile gluten-free baking can be.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Gluten-Free
Servings 12 muffins
Calories 195 kcal
12-cup Muffin Tin
Mixing Bowls
Wire Rack
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free flour blend containing xanthan gum
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated (substitute nutritional yeast for dairy-free option)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk or any milk of choice
- 2 tablespoons honey optional, for slight sweetness
Mix-ins
- 1 1/2 cups tart apples like Granny Smith, peeled and diced small
- 1/4 cup walnuts chopped, optional
- 2 tablespoons green onions finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice optional, to prevent apple browning
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with olive oil. Position your oven rack in the center for even heat distribution.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, thyme leaves, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.
Peel and core the apples, then dice them into small ¼-inch pieces. If working ahead, toss the diced apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, almond milk, and honey (if using) until smooth and well incorporated.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing - about 10-12 strokes with your spatula should do it.
Gently fold in the diced apples, walnuts (if using), Parmesan cheese, and green onions.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Using an ice cream scoop creates uniform muffins that bake evenly.
Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Room temperature ingredients create better structure in gluten-free baking.
The small dice of apple ensures even distribution and prevents soggy pockets in your muffins.
These muffins actually develop deeper flavor overnight, making them perfect to prepare ahead of time.
For best texture after storage, slice in half and toast before serving.
Calories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 5gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 310mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g
Keyword Gluten-Free, Savory Muffins, Apple Muffins, Thyme, Healthy Baking