Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

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If you love the cozy charm of classic muffins with a luscious twist, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with juicy fresh strawberries and a decadent swirl of creamy cheese, these muffins strike the perfect balance between sweet-tart freshness and smooth richness. Each bite reveals tender crumb flecked with strawberry gems and pockets of luscious cream cheese that melt into a dreamy filling. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a special treat to share, these muffins deliver comfort and joy with a bright, irresistible flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role—rich cream cheese gives the filling its silky texture, fresh strawberries bring brightness and juiciness, and a crumbly topping adds that perfect crunchy contrast.

• Cream cheese, 4 ounces, softened: The star of the creamy filling that adds tang and lushness.
• Granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons (for filling) + 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons: Sweetens both the batter and crumb topping just right without overpowering.
• Large egg yolk, 1: Adds richness and helps bind the cream cheese filling smoothly.
• Vanilla extract, 1 1/2 teaspoons (divided): Infuses warmth and enhances all the flavors.
• All-purpose flour, 2 cups + 1 tablespoon (for strawberries) + 1/3 cup (topping): Provides structure to the muffins and coats strawberries to prevent sinking.
• Baking powder, 2 teaspoons: Gives the muffins their tender, fluffy rise.
• Baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon: Works with acidic ingredients to boost leavening and tenderness.
• Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and brightens flavors.
• Large eggs, 2: Give body and moisture to the muffin crumb.
• Milk, 1/2 cup: Adds moisture for a soft, tender crumb.
• Vegetable oil, 1/2 cup: Keeps muffins moist and fresh longer.
• Diced fresh strawberries, 1 1/4 cups: The juicy bursts of natural sweetness that make these muffins shine.
• Unsalted butter, 3 tablespoons, melted: Mixed into the crumb topping for a crisp, delicate crunch.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to ensure the muffins come out cleanly and with ease. This simple start sets the stage for perfectly baked golden muffins every time.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling will add richness and a velvety surprise inside each muffin.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix forms the foundation for the batter, ensuring the muffins rise evenly and develop a tender crumb.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until they are fully combined. This wet mixture brings moisture and helps create a soft, tender texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry mixture. Stir carefully until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so a gentle fold is key for lightness.

Step 6: Prepare and Fold in Strawberries

Toss the diced fresh strawberries in 1 tablespoon of flour to coat them lightly. This step prevents the strawberries from sinking to the bottom of the muffins during baking. Then, gently fold the strawberries into the batter, distributing their juicy sweetness throughout.

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, stir together 1/3 cup flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, and the melted butter until crumbly. This crunchy topping will add delightful texture and a hint of buttery sweetness.

Step 8: Assemble the Muffins

Fill each muffin cup halfway with the batter. Spoon some of the cream cheese filling on top of the batter in each cup, then cover with the remaining batter. Finally, sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the muffin tops for that irresistible finish.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma alone will have you eager to dive in!

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and helps the muffins hold their shape beautifully.

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins even more special, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey on top just before serving. Fresh strawberry slices or a few mint leaves can add visual appeal and fresh aroma that complements the muffins perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for a creamy contrast. A hot cup of tea or coffee enhances the experience, making it perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these muffins as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit salad or a colorful cheese platter. You could also slice them horizontally and fill with a smear of extra cream cheese or strawberry jam for a delightful, sandwich-style treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and moist for 3-4 days, making them perfect to enjoy throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save these delights for later, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze wonderfully and can be kept for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To revive frozen or refrigerated muffins, pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds. This warms the muffins through while preserving their moist crumb and creamy filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are ideal for their firm texture and bright flavor, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Toss with flour as usual before folding into the batter.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

Cream cheese provides the signature tang and creaminess, but you could try mascarpone or ricotta cheese as alternatives for a milder flavor and slightly different texture.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delightful.

Why do we toss the strawberries in flour?

Coating strawberries in flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins during baking, ensuring an even distribution of those juicy bursts throughout the batter.

How can I make the crumb topping extra crunchy?

Use cold butter instead of melted and pulse it with flour and sugar until crumbly for a crunchier topping. Adding a small handful of chopped nuts can also add a wonderful texture.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe is like inviting a warm hug into your kitchen. The blend of fresh strawberries and rich cream cheese in every bite creates a treat that’s both satisfying and vibrant. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find joy and delicious results with this recipe. So why wait? Grab those fresh berries, and bake up a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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