Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins: A Decadent Treat
Indulging in a sweet, gooey, and flavorful muffin is one of life’s simple pleasures. These Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are not only easy to make but also packed with layers of deliciousness. The warm cinnamon flavor, combined with the rich cream cheese center, makes these muffins a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time in between. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this irresistible treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Topping:
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar mixture
- Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparation Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the tin to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients and ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Mix the Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set the dry mixture aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients In a separate medium-sized bowl, mix 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup milk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until the ingredients are fully combined.
Make the Batter Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon to mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure the muffins remain soft and tender.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling In a small bowl, beat together 8 oz softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Assemble the Muffins Fill each muffin liner about halfway with the batter. Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture to the center of each muffin. Cover the cream cheese filling with more batter until the liner is about three-quarters full. Sprinkle the tops of the muffins with the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delightful crunch.
Bake to Perfection Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the muffin—avoid the cream cheese center. The toothpick should come out clean. Once baked, let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Add the Finishing Touch (Optional) If desired, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled muffins for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.
Serving and Storing Tips Enjoy these muffins warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk for the ultimate treat. Store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving to bring back the gooey texture. These muffins freeze well. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Rich Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese is a match made in heaven.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese? Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and richness of the filling may vary slightly.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative? Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.
What if I don’t have cinnamon sugar? You can easily make your own by combining 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Can I skip the white chocolate drizzle? Yes, the muffins are delicious on their own, but the drizzle adds an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking? Make sure the batter is thick enough to hold the filling. Also, avoid overfilling the liners with cream cheese.
These Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are the ultimate indulgence, combining warm, spicy cinnamon with a rich, creamy center. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to delight. Happy baking!