Name: Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature); 4 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tsp vanilla; 2 eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup milk; 2 cups cake flour (AP will also do); 2/3 cup sugar; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries; raw sugar (for topping (optional))

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of baked goods wafting through the house, and when it comes to my go-to treats, Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins tops the list. Imagine a lazy Sunday morning, sunlight streaming through the window, and the delightful aroma of fresh muffins filling the air. The moment I decided to whip up a batch of these muffins, I knew I was in for a treat. The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a luscious and moist muffin that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Every bite is a burst of flavor, and trust me, they never last long in my house!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
190 kcal

Protein:
3g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
8g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Blender, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

The Magic of This Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins

They’re Perfectly Moist

One of the things I love about these Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins is their moist texture. The cream cheese not only adds a creamy flavor but also keeps the muffins tender. Unlike many other muffins, these don’t dry out quickly, making them a delightful choice any time of day.

Fresh Strawberries Shine

Using fresh, ripe strawberries elevates this recipe to another level. The sweetness of the strawberries contrasts beautifully with the tangy cream cheese, creating a perfect balance in every bite. I always make sure to use the juiciest berries I can find!

Quick and Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe, look no further. These muffins come together fast—perfect for those busy mornings when you need something delicious without the fuss. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a warm batch ready to enjoy.

Customizable to Your Taste

Want to mix it up? You can easily customize these muffins. Add in some nuts for a crunch, or swap the strawberries for another berry—like blueberries or raspberries. The base recipe is so versatile you can get creative while still enjoying that amazing cream cheese goodness.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a brunch with friends, a family gathering, or just a treat for yourself, these muffins fit the bill. They’re not just delicious, but they’re also visually appealing with those lovely bits of strawberries peeking through. You’ll impress everyone with your baking skills!

Perfectly Sweetened

I appreciate that these muffins aren’t overly sweet, which makes them a delightful morning indulgence or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee. The additional sprinkle of raw sugar on top provides a nice crunch and just the right amount of sweetness to complement the strawberries.

Ingredients Required for Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference. For these Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins, we rely on a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Each component plays its part, from the creamy richness of the cream cheese to the sweetness of the strawberries. Together, they create a muffin that’s both comforting and satisfying.

4 oz cream cheese, room temperature – This adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the muffins.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature – Helps achieve a tender muffin and adds richness.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
2 tsp vanilla – Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
2 eggs, room temperature – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the structure.
1/2 cup milk – Keeps the muffins moist and adds richness.
2 cups cake flour, AP will also do – Provides a light and fluffy texture.
2/3 cup sugar – Sweetens the muffins without overpowering the natural flavors.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder – Helps the muffins rise and gives them a light texture.
1/2 tsp baking soda – Works with the acidity of the cream cheese for leavening.
1/4 tsp salt – Enhances all the flavors in the muffins.
1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries – The star ingredient that adds bursts of sweetness.
raw sugar for topping (optional) – Adds a crunchy texture on top of the muffins.

Cooking Method for Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Making Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins is a straightforward and enjoyable experience. With each step, you’ll see how everything comes together beautifully, resulting in muffins that are sure to impress.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. It’s essential to have your oven hot and ready so the muffins cook evenly and rise properly.
Prepare your muffin tins by lining them with cupcake liners. This step makes for an easy cleanup and ensures your muffins don’t stick.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The right texture here is key; it should be fluffy and well-combined.
Add in the lemon juice and vanilla, continuing to beat until everything is nicely incorporated. This aromatic combination will enhance the flavor profile of your muffins.
Next, add the milk and eggs. Mix until the batter is well blended and smooth. The eggs add richness and help bind everything together.
In a separate small bowl, combine the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the cream cheese mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain.
Fold in the chopped strawberries. Gently mixing in the strawberries helps distribute them throughout the batter while keeping their shape.
Scoop the batter into your prepared muffin tins, filling each about three-quarters full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Sprinkle the tops with raw sugar if desired for an added crunch. The contrast of the crunchy topping with the soft interior makes for a delightful muffin.
Place in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Enjoy the lovely aroma while they bake!
Once they’re done, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents them from getting soggy.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like cream cheese and eggs at room temperature helps them incorporate better, resulting in a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined to keep them fluffy.
Use Fresh Strawberries: The fresher the strawberries, the better the flavor. Opt for ripe, juicy berries for the best results.
Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary; always check with a toothpick to ensure they are cooked through.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Baking is as much about creativity as it is about following the recipe, especially with Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins. Here are some tips to help you make these muffins even better.

Storage: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
Freezing: These muffins freeze wonderfully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve your muffins with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of yogurt for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Mix-Ins: For a twist, add in some chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking. This adds variety and texture!
Serving Warm: Enjoy them warm from the oven or reheat them slightly in the microwave for a minute. This brings back their soft texture.

Serving Ideas for Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins

When it comes to serving Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins, the possibilities are endless! Here’s how you can enjoy them:

Breakfast Delight: Serve these moist muffins warm with a pat of butter on top for a delightful breakfast treat.
Brunch Hit: Pair with fresh fruit and coffee for a perfect brunch spread. Your guests will love the combination!
Picnic Treat: They make for an excellent picnic snack. Just pack them in a container, and you’re ready to go!
Dessert Option: Enjoy them as a light dessert with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet indulgence.
Seasonal Flavor: These muffins are great for spring gatherings. Their bright flavors embody the season and will impress your guests!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment!

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in place of fresh ones! Just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your muffins. This can actually work well for a delicious variation!

To check if your muffins are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready! The tops should also be slightly golden brown.

To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them, but for longer storage, I recommend freezing. Wrap them tightly and they’ll last for up to three months!

Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly for mini muffins. Just reduce the baking time to about 15 to 18 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness. They make for cute little treats!

Yes, feel free to experiment! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Just keep in mind the moisture content; you may need to adjust the flour slightly if you add more fruit.

Conclusion

The Strawberry and Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, making them a must-try for any occasion. I encourage you to whip up a batch this weekend and share them with family or friends. They are sure to bring smiles and create beautiful memories around the table!