If you’ve never tried a cruffin, you’re missing out! This Cheesy Garlic Cruffin combines the best of both worlds—flaky, buttery croissant dough and the rich, savory flavor of garlic and melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a tasty snack. And the best part? These cruffins are incredibly easy to make, with just a handful of ingredients, and they’ll have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to a soft, cheesy interior that’s packed with garlicky goodness. Whether you’re a garlic lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will be a hit.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Cheesy Garlic Cruffin, from ingredients to tips for getting that flaky texture. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these cheesy little treats are sure to impress.

What Makes This Cheesy Garlic Cruffin Special?

Buttery, Flaky Layers: The dough is made from croissant pastry, which gives the cruffins their signature flaky texture. Every bite is a delicate, buttery delight.
Cheese Pull: When you tear into these cruffins, you’re met with a glorious cheese pull thanks to the melted cheese inside. It’s the perfect mix of savory and gooey!
Garlic Goodness: Infused with garlic butter, these cruffins pack a punch of savory flavor. The garlic adds depth and richness to every bite.
Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy name fool you. Making cruffins is easier than you think, and this recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile: While these cruffins are delicious on their own, they can also be served as a side with soups, salads, or any main course that could use a little cheesy, garlicky touch.

Ingredient Notes

Croissant Dough (or Puff Pastry): The base of a cruffin is made from croissant dough, which gives it a beautiful, flaky texture. You can use store-bought dough to save time, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Substitution: If you prefer, you can use puff pastry as an alternative. It won’t have the same layers, but it will still be delicious.
Garlic Butter: This is what infuses the cruffins with that irresistible garlic flavor. Make sure to use fresh garlic for the best taste.
Substitution: If you want a quicker option, you can use garlic powder mixed with softened butter.
Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese creates the perfect balance of meltiness and sharp flavor.
Substitution: Feel free to swap the cheese for any kind you like. Gruyere, parmesan, or even a spicy pepper jack would work beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper bring everything together.
Substitution: If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Equipment: You’ll need a muffin tin to shape the cruffins. Make sure to grease it well or use liners to avoid sticking.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Cruffin

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot before baking.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add 3 cloves of finely minced garlic and stir until fragrant. Set aside.
Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your croissant dough (or puff pastry) into a rectangular shape. Brush the dough generously with the garlic butter mixture.
Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the dough. Don’t be shy—this is where all that cheesy goodness comes from!
Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the rolled dough into 6 to 8 even pieces.
Prepare the Muffin Tin
Grease a muffin tin or line it with parchment paper. Place each slice of dough into the muffin tin, turning them slightly so they resemble little spirals.
Bake the Cruffins
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the cruffins cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to eat.

Storage Options

Room Temperature: Store your cruffins at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze these cruffins for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Variations and Substitutions

Herbed Garlic Cruffin: Add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the garlic butter for a fragrant twist.
Bacon Cheddar Cruffin: Add cooked bacon bits to the cheese for an extra savory touch.
Spicy Garlic Cruffin: Toss in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your cruffins a little heat.
Vegan Cruffins: Use dairy-free butter and vegan cheese to make these cruffins vegan-friendly.
Seasonal Variations: In the fall, add a sprinkle of sage or pumpkin puree to the filling for a seasonal twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cruffins without a muffin tin?
Yes! You can shape the dough into little rounds and bake them on a baking sheet. Just be sure to watch them closely as they may cook faster.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic will give a richer, more vibrant flavor.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, go ahead and make your own croissant or puff pastry dough.
How can I make these cruffins ahead of time?
You can prepare the cruffins up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before baking.
Can I freeze cruffins?
Yes! You can freeze baked cruffins for up to a month. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Cheesy Garlic Cruffin recipe! Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, looking for a savory snack, or just craving something cheesy and garlicky, these cruffins are sure to hit the spot. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for impressing friends and family. Try them today, and let us know how they turned out!

Cheesy Garlic Cruffin: A Savory Twist on a Classic Pastry

Author: Sofia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Ingredients

Scale

1 package croissant dough
1/4 cup butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Melt butter and mix in garlic.
Roll out dough, brush with garlic butter, and add cheese.
Roll dough, slice, and place in muffin tin.
Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden and cheese is bubbly.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g