Savory Cupcakes Inspired by Charleston’s Finest
When it comes to Charleston, South Carolina, one dish stands out above the rest: Shrimp and Grits. This beloved Lowcountry classic has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. My husband and I took on the challenge of recreating this iconic dish in a unique and innovative way – as a savory cupcake.
A Taste of Charleston in Every Bite
Our creation, which won first place in its class at a local charity cupcake event, is a game-changer for brunch tables and special events. These savory cakes are best served warm, and their moist texture is sure to impress.
The Secret to Success: Sticky Dough
Don’t be alarmed if the dough seems excessively sticky, even after combining all the ingredients. This is a normal part of the process, and it’s what yields a deliciously moist (not gooey) muffin.
Recipe Details
Yields: 12
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 30 minutes
Active Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 stick butter, melted
- 1 cup stone ground grits, prepared per package instructions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 8 oz cream cheese, whipped
- 6 oz Tasso Ham
- 12 grilled or roasted shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions
Muffin Magic
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, melted butter, shredded cheese, and scallions, mixing until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into lightly greased muffin pans and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tasso Ham Mousse Topping
Grind Tasso Ham in a food processor until finely chopped. Cream together the whipped cream cheese and chopped ham until fluffy. Top each cupcake with a dollop of the Tasso ham mousse and finish with a roasted shrimp.
These savory cupcakes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So go ahead, get creative, and bring a taste of Charleston to your table!
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