Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

Why Make This Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, look no further than these Cream Cheese Muffins. These muffins are the ideal blend of fluffy goodness and creamy sweetness, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. The moist texture paired with the luscious cream cheese center creates a satisfying bite that can brighten any day. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, requiring just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps. With their tantalizing aroma and delightful taste, these muffins will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire.

How to Make Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

Making these Cream Cheese Muffins is a breeze! You’ll start by preparing the sweet cream cheese filling that gives these muffins their unique character. Then, you’ll mix together the simple muffin batter before assembling everything into fluffy delights. Baking just a few moments at the right temperature ensures a perfect rise and a golden-brown exterior, while the optional white chocolate drizzle adds an extra touch of indulgence. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled, or ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar (for sweet cream cheese center)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for sweet cream cheese center)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar topping)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips or chopped white baking bar (optional, for drizzle)
• 1-2 teaspoons vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for thinning drizzle)

Directions:

Prepare Oven & Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper or silicone liners. It’s important that your egg, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best results.

Make Sweet Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add ¼ cup granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; continue beating until light and fluffy. Set this delicious mixture aside.

Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon until well combined. Set it aside for later.

Combine Dry Muffin Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.

Combine Wet Muffin Ingredients

In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the large egg, whole milk, melted butter (or vegetable oil), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.

Mix Muffin Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s perfectly fine to have a few small lumps.

Assemble Muffins

Spoon about 1 ½ tablespoons of muffin batter into the bottom of each prepared muffin liner. Next, place a generous tablespoon of the cream cheese filling on top of the batter in each cup. Cover the filling with the remaining muffin batter, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Finish by generously sprinkling the prepared cinnamon sugar topping over each muffin.

Bake Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 5 minutes. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a skewer inserted into the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese center) comes out clean.

Cool and Drizzle (Optional)

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to add the optional white chocolate drizzle, melt the white chocolate chips with 1-2 teaspoons of vegetable or coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth. Drizzle over the completely cooled muffins and let set.

Storage

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore their gooey center and soft texture. You can also freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Nutritional Information

Each muffin (based on 12 servings) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 4g

How to Serve Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

These Cream Cheese Muffins make a versatile treat! Serve them warm for breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or tea, or present them at brunch to impress your guests. They also make a cozy afternoon snack, particularly delightful with a dollop of butter or a side of fresh fruit. For a special touch, try pairing them with a sweet cranberry sauce or your favorite jam.

How to Store Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If freezing, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Just remember to thaw any frozen muffins in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying them.

Expert Tips for Perfect Best Cream Cheese Muffins: Fluffy, Sweet, & Simple Recipe

1. Temperature Matters: Ensure your wet ingredients (egg, milk, cream cheese) are at room temperature; this helps achieve a smooth batter.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stirring gently is key to keeping your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
3. Quality Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, more decadent filling.
4. Switch It Up: Feel free to add in nuts, fruits, or chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Delicious Variations

1. Fruit-Filled: Incorporate fresh blueberries or strawberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
2. Chocolate Chip: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolatey experience.
3. Nutty: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
4. Spiced: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
   Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, though the texture may change slightly. Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier filling.

2. What can I substitute for whole milk?
   You can substitute whole milk with 2% or almond milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain proper sweetness in the muffins.

3. How do I prevent my muffins from sticking?
   Make sure to grease your muffin liners or use non-stick liners. You can also dust them lightly with flour before adding batter.

4. Can I use other sweeteners?
   Yes! You can try using honey, agave, or coconut sugar, keeping in mind the adjustments in sweetness.

5. Will these muffins work gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, keeping an eye on consistency as it may vary.

6. Is it necessary to use a drizzle?
   The drizzle is optional! The muffins are delicious on their own, but the drizzle adds a nice touch for special occasions.

7. How can I ensure even baking?
   Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking time to ensure even cooking for all muffins.

8. What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
   You can use a baking dish and cut the muffins into squares once baked.

9. Can I prepare the batter in advance?
   Yes, you can prep the batter a few hours ahead, but it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal texture.

10. What if I have leftover cream cheese filling?
    You can store the leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. It’s great for spreading on bagels or toast!

Conclusion

These Best Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that combines fluffy muffin goodness with a luscious cream cheese center. They are easy to make and offer a comforting taste that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth. With endless variations and serving possibilities, there’s no reason not to bake a batch today! Try them out and don’t forget to share your experience—happy baking!

Best Cream Cheese Muffins

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• Author: acheyakh-mohamed
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

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Description

Delightful cream cheese muffins that are fluffy, sweet, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, room temperature
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled, or ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar (for sweet cream cheese center)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for sweet cream cheese center)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar topping)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup (85g) white chocolate chips or chopped white baking bar (optional, for drizzle)
• 1–2 teaspoons vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional, for thinning drizzle)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add ¼ cup sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ¾ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. In another medium bowl, combine the egg, milk, melted butter or oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
7. Spoon about 1 ½ tablespoons of batter into each muffin liner, add a tablespoon of cream cheese filling, then cover with remaining batter.
8. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping over each muffin.
9. Bake for 5 minutes at 400°F, then reduce temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
10. Allow to cool and drizzle with melted white chocolate if desired.

Notes

For optimal texture, ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: muffins, cream cheese, breakfast, brunch, dessert