Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
These muffins offer the ideal combination of cinnamon spice and creamy sweetness. The muffin batter is spiced with just the right amount of cinnamon, while the cream cheese filling provides a tangy contrast that perfectly balances the overall sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top gives the muffins a crunchy, caramelized finish that makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a family breakfast or a special occasion, these muffins are guaranteed to please.
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Ingredients for the Perfect Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to bring this sweet indulgence to life:
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Ingredient | Amount | Description |
---|---|---|
Flour | 2 cups | Provides the structure for the muffins, giving them a light yet sturdy texture. |
Sugar | 1 cup | Adds sweetness, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese and enhancing the cinnamon flavor. |
Baking powder | 1 tbsp | Helps the muffins rise, giving them a fluffy, tender crumb. |
Salt | 1/2 tsp | Enhances overall flavors, providing depth and contrast. |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp | The star spice adding warmth and a delightful aroma. |
Melted butter | 1/2 cup | Adds moisture and richness to the batter. |
Milk | 1 cup | Ensures the muffins have a soft, moist texture. |
Eggs | 2 | Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together. |
Vanilla | 1 tsp | Enhances the flavor of the muffin batter. |
Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz | Creates the irresistible creamy filling. |
Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup | Sweetens the cream cheese mixture, balancing its tanginess. |
Cinnamon sugar for topping | To taste | Adds a crunchy, sweet finish to the muffins. |
Vanilla cream or white chocolate (melted, optional) | For drizzle | For an extra touch of sweetness and elegance. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the muffins will bake evenly and rise properly. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners or lightly grease each cup to prevent sticking. This step ensures your muffins come out of the tin cleanly and maintain their perfect shape.
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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk them together until well mixed. This dry mixture will serve as the base of your muffin batter. Make sure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout to infuse the muffins with its warm, spicy flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. The melted butter will add richness to the muffins, while the milk ensures they stay moist. Be sure the eggs are well incorporated into the mixture, creating a smooth batter when combined with the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in dense muffins. The batter should be slightly lumpy but well integrated, with no streaks of flour remaining.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. This filling is what sets these muffins apart, adding a gooey, tangy-sweet center that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Assemble the Muffins
Fill each muffin liner halfway with the batter. Use a spoon to create a small well in the center, then add a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Cover the cream cheese with a little more batter, ensuring the cream cheese is fully encased within the muffin.
Step 7: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the tops of each muffin with cinnamon sugar. This will create a caramelized, slightly crunchy top that complements the soft interior. Bake the muffins for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin comes out clean (apart from the cream cheese center). The tops should be golden and firm, while the insides remain soft and gooey.
Step 8: Optional Drizzle for Extra Sweetness
For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle the muffins with melted vanilla cream or white chocolate once they’ve cooled slightly. This optional step adds a beautiful finish and an extra layer of sweetness that makes these muffins even more delectable.