Fluffy muffins with sweet filling

An indulgent twist on the classic muffin, these cream cheese muffins offer a delightful surprise with their creamy center and golden, crunchy streusel topping. The contrast between the tender muffin base, rich cream cheese pockets, and buttery crumb creates a perfect breakfast or brunch treat that elevates your morning coffee experience.

I've been making these for weekend family brunches for years, and they never fail to disappear quickly. Last Christmas morning, my sister-in-law asked for the recipe after her first bite, saying they were "bakery quality but somehow more special."

Essential Ingredients

• For the Muffin Base:
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour: Creates the perfect tender crumb structure
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness without overwhelming
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures a proper rise and light texture
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and creates tender crumb
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Creates a moister muffin than butter alone
• 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Full-fat provides the creamiest texture
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling while maintaining tanginess
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the cream cheese flavor
• For the Streusel Topping:
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crumbly texture
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Creates sweet crunch when baked
• ¼ cup butter, softened: Binds the streusel and adds rich flavor

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Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Setup

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or coat thoroughly with baking spray. Allow all refrigerated ingredients to come to room temperature for optimal mixing.

Step 2: Create The Muffin Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 1 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, folding gently with a rubber spatula just until moistened. Small lumps are perfectly fine - overmixing leads to tough muffins.

Step 3: Prepare The Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, blend softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be completely lump-free but not overly whipped. Gently fold half of this cream cheese mixture into your muffin batter with just a few strokes, creating visible streaks rather than completely incorporating.

Step 4: Fill Your Muffin Cups

Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each about halfway. Using the back of a teaspoon, create a small well in the center of each muffin. Add a generous tablespoon of the remaining cream cheese mixture into each well, then gently press it down slightly into the batter.

Step 5: Make The Perfect Streusel

Combine flour, sugar, and softened butter in a small bowl. Use your fingertips to work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces. The butter should be fully incorporated with no dry flour remaining. Generously sprinkle this topping over each muffin, pressing lightly so it adheres.

Step 6: Bake To Golden Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the streusel turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for exactly 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serving them slightly warm allows the cream cheese center to remain soft and creamy.

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My family's favorite way to enjoy these is slightly warm with a small dollop of strawberry preserves. The contrast between the tangy cream cheese, sweet muffin, and fruity jam creates an unforgettable flavor combination.

The Perfect Make-Ahead Option for Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins can be prepared the night before and refrigerated unbaked. In the morning, simply bring them to room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. This makes them perfect for holiday mornings or when entertaining guests.

After years of baking these muffins, I've found that the key to their success lies in creating distinct layers of texture and flavor. The gentle folding of ingredients, careful filling technique, and generous topping application all contribute to creating a truly special morning treat that feels indulgent yet perfectly appropriate for breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these cream cheese muffins?

Absolutely! Once completely cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

→ Why are paper liners necessary for this recipe?

The streusel topping tends to stick to the pan, making it difficult to remove the muffins intact without liners.

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and texture. Low-fat versions will work but may slightly alter the final taste.

→ How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

The tops should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the cake part (not the cream cheese) should come out clean with no wet batter.