Cheesy Garlic Cruffin

This cheesy garlic cruffin recipe combines the flaky texture of croissants with the shape of muffins, creating a savory treat packed with butter, cheese, and aromatic garlic. The spiral layers create a beautiful presentation while delivering incredible flavor in every bite.

I first made these for a weekend brunch gathering, and they disappeared before anything else on the table. Now my family requests them for nearly every special occasion breakfast or as an accompaniment to soups and stews.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated crescent roll sheets: Provide the perfect flaky base without extensive pastry work
• Unsalted butter: Creates richness while allowing you to control the salt level
• Fresh chives: Add bright color and mild onion flavor that elevates the savory profile
• Minced garlic: Infuses the entire cruffin with aromatic flavor; choose fresh over pre-minced for best results
• Mild cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and offers a family-friendly flavor that appeals to everyone
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without making the cruffins taste salty

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Surface:

Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F for optimal rising and browning. Spray each cup of your muffin tin thoroughly with nonstick spray, making sure to coat the sides all the way to the rim to prevent sticking when the cheese inevitably oozes out during baking.

Roll Out the Dough:

On a lightly floured surface, carefully unroll each tube of crescent dough and gently stretch it to form a 12×16 inch rectangle. Work slowly to avoid tears or thin spots that could leak filling. If using perforated dough, press the seams firmly together with your fingertips until completely sealed.

Prepare the Flavor Base:

Mix the softened butter with fresh chives and minced garlic until completely incorporated. The butter should be truly softened but not melted to create the perfect spreadable consistency. This compound butter is the key to distributing flavor throughout every layer.

Assemble the Layers:

Spread one third of your compound butter evenly across the surface of one dough sheet, going all the way to the edges. The butter layer should be thin but complete. Sprinkle exactly 1 cup of shredded cheese in an even layer over the butter, pressing slightly to adhere.

Create the Signature Shape:

Starting at the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, applying gentle even pressure. Cut this log in half crosswise, then slice each half lengthwise to expose the beautiful layers. The cutting creates the signature spiral effect that makes cruffins special.

Form the Cruffins:

Take one section of cut dough with the layers facing outward and roll it into a spiral, tucking the end underneath or to the side. Place each formed cruffin into your prepared muffin tin, arranging the layers vertically for the most dramatic rise and presentation.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, watching carefully after the 18 minute mark. Look for deep golden brown edges and tops that spring back when lightly touched. The cheese should be fully melted and beginning to crisp at the edges.

Apply the Finishing Touch:

While the cruffins are hot from the oven, brush generously with the prepared garlic butter mixture, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. This final layer adds moisture and an extra burst of flavor that makes these cruffins irresistible.

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My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching guests pull apart the layers and discover all the cheese hidden inside. My daughter always requests these for her birthday breakfast, and seeing her delight as she pulls the first warm cruffin apart has become a cherished tradition.

Make Ahead Options

These cruffins can be fully assembled and refrigerated overnight before baking. Simply cover the muffin tin tightly with plastic wrap and add about 3 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings when you want something special without early kitchen work.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe creates a delicious foundation that welcomes customization. Try adding crispy bacon pieces between the layers for a breakfast version, or incorporate sundried tomatoes and basil for an Italian twist. For a spicier version, add pepper jack cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.

Serving Suggestions

While these cruffins make a beautiful standalone item for brunch, they also pair wonderfully with creamy soups or hearty stews. For an elegant presentation, serve them in a cloth-lined basket with small dishes of extra compound butter on the side. They're substantial enough to replace dinner rolls but special enough for celebratory meals.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese for these cruffins?

Yes! While mild cheddar creates a classic flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella for more stretch, Gruyère for nuttiness, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Any good melting cheese will work beautifully in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftover cruffins?

Once completely cooled, store leftover cruffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture.

→ Can I make these cruffins ahead of time?

You can prepare the cruffins up to the point of baking, cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.

→ What can I serve with cheesy garlic cruffins?

These savory cruffins pair wonderfully with soups, stews, or salads. They also make great appetizers served with marinara dipping sauce or alongside a charcuterie board. For brunch, serve them with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit.

→ Can I freeze these cruffins?

Yes, these freeze beautifully! Bake them completely, allow to cool, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in a 325°F oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through.

→ Why are my cruffins not rising properly?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before baking. Also check that your crescent roll dough is fresh and within its expiration date, as older dough may not rise as well. Finally, be sure not to overwork the dough when rolling it out.