Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are the epitome of springtime flavors, offering a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and creamy indulgence. Each bite is a blissful experience, with juicy strawberries and a rich cream cheese filling that melds beautifully with the soft, moist crumb of the muffin. These muffins are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to any brunch table, afternoon tea, or as a delightful snack any time of the day. The combination of fresh strawberries with the tangy cream cheese creates a taste sensation that is both refreshing and satisfying. Let's dive into how to make these delectable treats.

Ingredients

 

For the Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• ⅓ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped strawberries

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

 

Preparation

 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with muffin papers or greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the muffins from sticking and makes for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 2 teaspoons baking powder. This mixture will serve as the dry base for your muffins.

Step 3: In another bowl, combine ⅓ cup vegetable oil, 1 egg, ⅓ cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients thoroughly until they are well incorporated.

Step 4: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. It's crucial not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. The batter should be slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Fold in 1 cup of chopped strawberries into the batter, distributing them evenly. The strawberries not only add flavor but also moisture, contributing to the muffins' tender texture.

Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will be your cream cheese filling, adding a creamy, tangy surprise inside each muffin.

Step 7: Fill each muffin cup about ¼ full with the batter. Then, add a dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each. Cover the cream cheese with more batter until the muffin cups are about ¾ full, ensuring the cream cheese is encased in the batter.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding the cream cheese) comes out clean.

Step 9: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days. Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed for a softer cream cheese center. Pairing these muffins with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful breakfast or midday snack.

Tips

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle a little sugar on top of each muffin before baking. This will create a crispy, sweet crust.
• Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with sugar and vanilla. This makes it easier to blend and smoother for filling.
• If strawberries are not in season, feel free to use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Nutritional Information

These muffins are a treat, so they're a bit indulgent. Each muffin contains approximately:

• Calories: 200-250
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Sugar: 15-20g
• Sodium: 150-200mg

Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, these muffins provide a perfect excuse to pause and enjoy the moment. With their moist crumb, bursts of fresh strawberries, and creamy center, they're a guaranteed hit for any muffin lover.