Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that combines warm cinnamon spice with a creamy cream cheese filling. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack. With a gooey center and a cinnamon-sugar topping, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Set the cream cheese mixture aside.
Step 3: Make the Muffin Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Muffins
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the muffin batter into each muffin cup.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling on top of the batter in each cup.
- Top with another tablespoon of muffin batter, making sure the cream cheese is fully covered.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over each muffin.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature for a gooey, delicious treat.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 3/4 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do Not Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dense muffins.
Variations
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped apples to the muffin batter for a fruity twist.
- Streusel Topping: Replace the cinnamon sugar topping with a streusel made of butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for extra crunch.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves for a pumpkin spice flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?
Yes, these muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
2. Can I Freeze Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins?
Yes, you can freeze these muffins. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. How Do I Store Leftover Muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
4. Can I Use a Muffin Mix Instead of Making the Batter from Scratch?
Yes, you can use a store-bought muffin mix and add the cream cheese filling and cinnamon sugar topping to create a similar result.
Serving Suggestions
- Coffee or Tea: Serve these muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat.
- Whipped Cream: Top the muffins with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair with fresh berries for a balanced breakfast.
Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are a wonderful blend of warm spices, creamy filling, and a sweet, crunchy topping. These muffins are easy to make and are perfect for any time you need a comforting, homemade treat. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these muffins are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the irresistible combination of cinnamon and cream cheese!
