Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Indulge in the delightful world of Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins, where each bite is a heavenly blend of tangy cream cheese richness and bursts of fresh strawberry flavor. These muffins are not your average breakfast treat; they are a luxurious experience designed to elevate your mornings to a whole new level. By infusing a generous amount of cream cheese into the batter and meticulously layering in juicy strawberries, these muffins are a decadent delight that promises to impress even the most discerning palates.

Crafted to perfection, these Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are a testament to the art of baking done right. The secret lies in the meticulous balance of moist cream cheese, aromatic vanilla, and plump strawberries, all coming together in a symphony of flavors and textures. With a recipe that ensures soft, tender muffins that stay fresh for days, you can savor these delectable delights at breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a touch of sweetness in your day.

Join me on a culinary journey as we delve into the world of Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins, where simple ingredients transform into a gourmet breakfast experience. Whether enjoyed on a leisurely weekend morning or as a thoughtful gift to loved ones, these muffins are sure to become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire. Embrace the magic of moist, flavorful muffins that are guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any table and bring joy to every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Superior Moisture: Incorporating cream cheese into the batter ensures a cake-like moisture that stays soft and tender for days.
• Impressive Texture: Baking at a high temperature results in impressive domed tops with a perfect balance of tangy richness and bright fruit flavor.
• Versatile: Can be easily customized with lemon zest, white chocolate chips, or nuts for different flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Long-lasting Freshness: These muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5, and they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe Recipe

• Ultimate “Low-Effort, High-Reward” Breakfast: Perfect for busy mornings when you want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Superior Moisture: The full package of cream cheese in the batter creates a cake-like texture that stays soft and tender for days, unlike traditional butter-based muffins.
• Sophisticated Flavor Balance: Tangy richness of cream cheese combined with bright fruit flavor from fresh strawberries offers a delightful taste experience.
• Impressive Presentation: Baked at a high temperature, these muffins develop impressive domed tops, making them visually appealing for brunches or special occasions.
• Versatile: Easily customizable by adding lemon zest, white chocolate chips, or nuts for different flavor profiles while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: These muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5, and they freeze well for up to 3 months, making them perfect for meal prep.
• Foolproof Technique: Chopping strawberries small and layering them in the batter guarantees a perfect distribution throughout the muffins, avoiding sinking or a mushy base.

Ingredients for Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

• 1 cup granulated sugar (196 g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (270 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 5 to 8 medium strawberries
• 3 teaspoons baking powder

How to Make Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and prep

Preheat the oven to 400°F and place 12 cupcake liners in a muffin pan.

Step 2: Prep strawberries

Dice the strawberries into small pea-sized pieces and pat dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking together.

Step 4: Prepare wet ingredients

Combine milk and cream cheese in a large liquid measuring cup. Microwave in 30-second intervals until cream cheese is warmed and easily spreadable.

Step 5: Finish wet mixture

Combine vegetable oil and vanilla with the milk and cream cheese mixture. Whisk until well blended; some cream cheese bits may resemble cottage cheese, which is expected.

Step 6: Combine and add berries

Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients; stir gently until just mixed (lumps are okay). Fold in a third of the strawberries.

Step 7: Layer the muffins

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups and top each with a few strawberry pieces. Finish by adding the remaining strawberry pieces on top of each muffin.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Storage Tips

After baking a batch of delicious strawberry cream cheese muffins, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Due to their high moisture content from the cream cheese and oil, these muffins stay soft and tender for several days. For short-term storage, keep the muffins at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy them beyond that time frame, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To enhance the texture and taste after the first day, simply warm the muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the oil and cream cheese, restoring their freshly baked quality.

If you have leftover muffins or want to save some for later, freezing them is a great option. These muffins freeze well for up to 3 months without losing their quality. To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen muffins, let them thaw at room temperature or gently reheat them in the microwave for a quick and convenient treat. By following these storage tips, you can savor the delightful strawberry cream cheese muffins at their best, whether freshly baked or frozen for later enjoyment.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make ingredient substitutions for the strawberry cream cheese muffins recipe, there are a few options available. For the all-purpose flour, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if you need to make the recipe gluten-free. Additionally, if you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.

For the cream cheese, if you are looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use a vegan cream cheese or coconut cream. These substitutes will still provide the muffins with a creamy texture and richness similar to traditional cream cheese. Lastly, if you don’t have strawberries on hand or want to try a different fruit, you can swap them out for blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches for a unique flavor profile while still maintaining the moist and tender texture of the muffins.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping these delectable Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea to enhance the indulgent breakfast experience. To take it to the next level, consider pairing these muffins with a side of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a balanced and satisfying morning meal.

Another creative idea is to turn these muffins into a dessert by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The warm, soft texture of the muffins paired with the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful contrast that will surely impress your guests. You can also drizzle some strawberry sauce over the ice cream for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the strawberries in the muffins perfectly. This dessert version of the muffins will make for a memorable ending to any meal or a special treat for a sweet afternoon snack.

FAQs for Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping and incorporating into the batter to prevent excess moisture.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each option will slightly affect the flavor and texture of the muffins, so choose based on your preference.

How can I make these muffins if I don’t have a cream cheese block?

If you don’t have a block of cream cheese, you can use an equal amount of cream cheese spread. Just note that the spreadable version may have a slightly different moisture content, which can subtly alter the final texture of the muffins.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

To make these muffins gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

As you embark on your own strawberry cream cheese muffin baking journey, remember that the true joy lies in the process and the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen. These muffins are not just a treat for the taste buds but a testament to the love and care you put into creating something special for yourself and your loved ones.

So go ahead, grab those fresh strawberries, whip up that cream cheese batter, and let the magic unfold in your oven. Whether you savor them with a cup of hot coffee on a lazy morning or pack them in your lunch for a midday pick-me-up, these strawberry cream cheese muffins are sure to bring a smile to your face with every delicious bite. Happy baking, and may your days be filled with the sweet joy of homemade goodness embodied in these delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins!

Delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

“Indulge in bakery-quality Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins with a moist, cake-like texture and bursting with fresh strawberries – a breakfast treat that rivals any bakery!”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time18 Minutes

Total Time33 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (12 muffins)

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar (196 g)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (270 g)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup whole milk
• 5 to 8 medium strawberries
• 3 teaspoons baking powder

Instructions

1. Preheat and prep: Preheat the oven to 400°F and place 12 cupcake liners in a muffin pan.
2. Prep strawberries: Dice the strawberries into small pea-sized pieces and pat dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
3. Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking together.
4. Prepare wet ingredients: Combine milk and cream cheese in a large liquid measuring cup. Microwave in 30-second intervals until cream cheese is warmed and easily spreadable.
5. Finish wet mixture: Combine vegetable oil and vanilla with the milk and cream cheese mixture. Whisk until well blended; some cream cheese bits may resemble cottage cheese, which is expected.
6. Combine and add berries: Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients; stir gently until just mixed (lumps are okay). Fold in a third of the strawberries.
7. Layer the muffins: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups and top each with a few strawberry pieces. Finish by adding the remaining strawberry pieces on top of each muffin.
8. Bake: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving warm.