01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and chili flakes until evenly combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and pickle brine until thoroughly blended.
04 - Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
05 - Gently fold in the diced dill pickles and shredded cheddar cheese, if using, distributing evenly throughout the batter.
06 - Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup approximately two-thirds full.
07 - Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin emerges clean.
08 - Allow muffins to rest in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
09 - Blend powdered sugar and pure maple syrup in a small bowl. Gradually add milk until the glaze achieves a thick yet pourable consistency.
10 - Drizzle the maple glaze generously over cooled muffins and serve.