In the kitchen: 9 creative uses for muffin tins

Many home cooks, from beginner to pro, will have a set of muffin tins nestled among their kitchen equipment. And, sure, we all love a freshly baked muffin or newly frosted cupcake; but, we think that the humble muffin tin could be put to work more often in the kitchen. This is why we’ve compiled a list of 9 creative uses for muffin tins, that spans far beyond the cake-like treats. Give these portable treats a run:

1. Mini lasagne cups
   Bring the muffin trays out mid-week with for this delicious dinner.
2. Potato gratin stacks
   Presentation plus! A stylish dinner party side, this gratin won’t look sloppy on your plates.
3. Broccoli and cheese bites
   The perfect party finger food, these tasty bites will keep both adults and kids satisfied.
4. Little apple pies
   Something for the sweet tooths: these mini apple pies are a great portion size, and best served with a good-quality vanilla ice-cream.
5. Crunchy taco cups
   Be it a party snack, a shared picnic lunch or a weeknight dinner, these taco cups are a tasty mouthful and look great on your plate.
6. Oeuf en cocotte
   Rachel Khoo’s own brunch-ready recipe is a wonderful contribution to a shared meal.
7. Deep dish pizza
   These super cute mini deep dish pizza bites can be made to suit your pizza preferences.
8. Parmesan-crusted crab cakes
   These fancy starters are bound to impress when you have friends around for tea.
9. Baked oatmeal
   Need to take breakfast on the run, or require some snacks for a hiking trip? These baked delights are ideal for a quick, nutritious energy boost.