Name: Irresistible Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups diced fresh strawberries; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing strawberries); 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crumb topping); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for crumb topping)

Welcome to the world of deliciousness with our Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins! These delightful muffins not only boast a golden-brown exterior but also conceal a creamy surprise inside. Perfectly moist and made with fresh strawberries, they bring a burst of fruity flavor to your breakfast table or afternoon tea. As you sink your teeth into these fluffy muffins, the combination of rich cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe combines ease and flavor, allowing anyone to whip up a batch of mouth-watering muffins that will leave your guests enchanted.

Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked muffins coming from the kitchen. These Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are not just a delightful way to start your day but also a versatile option for any time snack. Satisfying your sweet tooth with a hint of tang from the cream cheese filling, each muffin is a mini dessert that’s deceptively easy to make. The best part? You can have them on the table in under an hour! Perfect for brunch, potlucks, or as a special treat for yourself, these muffins will certainly become a staple in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Here are some great reasons why these muffins will steal your heart:

Flavor Explosion: The sweet strawberries paired with creamy cheese make for a deliciously decadent experience.
Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a snack, they fit in beautifully.
Stunning Presentation: The muffins look as good as they taste, making them perfect for entertaining.
Customizable: You can easily switch up the fruits or add nuts for extra flavor and crunch!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this muffin adventure, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for perfectly baked muffins. Next, grab a 12-cup muffin tin. You can either line it with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray for easy cleanup later. This step is crucial to prevent your muffins from sticking and allows for a seamless transfer from the tin to your cooling rack.

In terms of tools, you’ll need a mixing bowl for combining your dry ingredients and another for your wet ingredients. A whisk is perfect for blending and aerating your dry mix, while a rubber spatula will help fold in those scrumptious strawberries later on. Finally, don’t forget a small bowl for preparing the cream cheese filling — it’s where the magic begins! Having all your ingredients and utensils within arm’s reach will make your baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

Creating these delightful muffins requires a handful of simple ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor and texture. Here’s what you need:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups diced fresh strawberries
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing strawberries)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crumb topping)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for crumb topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F. While the oven warms up, take your muffin tin and either line it with paper liners for easy removal or lightly coat it with a non-stick spray to ensure your muffins release without a hitch. This initial step sets the stage for successful baking!

Step 2: Craft the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 egg yolk. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle flavor enhancement. Mix these ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth. This luscious filling will become the heart of your muffins, so make sure it’s mixed well and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step ensures that the rising agents are evenly distributed, allowing your muffins to rise beautifully and have a fluffy texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients until they are homogenous and well-blended. This mixture adds moisture and richness to the muffin batter, which is essential for that tender crumb.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now, it’s time to merge the wet and dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently stir using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be cautious not to over-mix — it’s okay if there are some lumps! Over-mixing will lead to tough muffins, which we definitely want to avoid.

Step 6: Add Strawberries

Before adding strawberries to the mix, toss the diced fresh fruit with 1 tablespoon of flour in a separate bowl. This flour coating helps prevent the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the muffins while baking. Gently fold these floured strawberries into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Create Crumb Topping

In another small bowl, prepare your crumb topping by whisking together 1/3 cup flour and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Add 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the mix and stir until you achieve a crumbly texture. This topping will add a delicious sweetness and crunchy texture to the muffins, enhancing their appeal.

Step 8: Assemble the Muffins

Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup halfway with the batter. Then, place approximately 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each. Cover this layer with the remaining batter, filling the cups until they are about two-thirds full. Finally, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each muffin portion, giving them that invitingly crunchy finish.

Step 9: Bake and Cool

Now it’s time to bake! Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top, and insert a toothpick into the muffin portion to check for doneness. It should come out clean, ensuring that your muffins are perfectly baked. Once done, allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

These Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are incredibly versatile! Here are some fun variations you can try:

Protein: For a protein boost, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Vegetables: Mix in spinach or shredded carrot to add a healthy twist without compromising flavor.
Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Cooking Notes

Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing; leave it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes before starting.
Fresh strawberries are preferred, but frozen strawberries can work as long as they’re thoroughly drained and patted dry.
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
To freeze, wrap muffins individually with plastic wrap and keep them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are baked and cooled, they are perfect for a variety of occasions. Consider serving them with:

A dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special treat.
A side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a balanced breakfast plate.

Tips

Always measure your flour correctly to ensure accurate ingredient ratios — spoon it into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Don’t skip the flour coating on the strawberries; it makes a significant difference in texture and presentation.
If you prefer a less sweet muffin, reduce the amount of sugar in the batter by a couple of tablespoons.
Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries to discover exciting flavor combinations.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250 per muffin
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Yes! Feel free to substitute strawberries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for varied flavors.

How do I store leftover muffins?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to ensure the muffins remain delicious and moist without gluten.

Why did my muffins sink?

This can happen if the batter is overmixed or if the oven temperature is too low. Ensure proper mixing and correct temperature for the best results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly marries the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh strawberries with creamy, rich cheese. They make an impressive addition to any table, whether for a cozy family brunch, a bake sale, or a simple afternoon snack. Encouraging creativity and variations, this recipe fits all occasions and preferences. We hope you give this delightful treat a try and don’t forget to share your baking adventures and thoughts with us. Happy baking!