There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked muffin, especially when it’s filled with gooey cream cheese and topped with a delightful cinnamon sugar mixture. These Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert. With a soft, moist texture and a sweet, creamy center, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese creates a warm, comforting taste that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Versatile: These muffins are great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these sweet, gooey treats.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar mixture (for topping)
- Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy removal of the muffins after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This will ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Create the Muffin Batter
- Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- Step 6: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This will create a sweet, gooey center for the muffins.
6. Assemble the Muffins
- Step 7: Fill each muffin liner halfway with the batter. Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each muffin. Top with more batter to cover the cream cheese.
7. Add the Topping
- Step 8: Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This will add a sweet, crunchy layer to the muffins.
8. Bake the Muffins
- Step 9: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the muffin (not the cream cheese center) comes out clean.
9. Cool and Optional Drizzle
- Step 10: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 11: If desired, drizzle the cooled muffins with melted white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until the ingredients are just combined to avoid tough muffins.
- Even Filling: Use a cookie scoop to evenly distribute the batter and cream cheese filling in each muffin liner.
- Cooling: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that this will give the muffins a denser texture and a slightly different flavor.
How should I store these muffins?
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, these muffins freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen muffins to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a thick Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. This will slightly alter the flavor and texture but will still be delicious.
Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Fold these into the batter just before filling the muffin liners.
By following these steps and tips, you can create delicious and comforting Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins that will delight your family and friends. Enjoy these warm, flavorful treats any time of the day!