Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix!
- Fold in the chopped strawberries gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, beat together the cream cheese and powdered sugar until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Spoon half of the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups. Add a dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each muffin, then cover with the remaining batter.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve your delicious Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins, consider a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for that extra touch. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of yogurt for a tasty breakfast platter. For drinks, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing iced tea can complement these muffins beautifully.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
After you’ve savored your fresh-from-the-oven muffins, you may find yourself with a few leftovers. To keep them fresh, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying. Remember to practice safe food storage by ensuring your muffins are completely cooled before sealing them away.
Pro Chef Tips
To enhance your Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins even further, here are a few expert cooking tips:
- Choose ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- If your batter feels too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve the right consistency.
- Consider adding a splash of lemon juice to your cream cheese mixture for a tangy twist.
Creative Twists
Want to give your muffins a unique spin? Try these variations:
- Add a tablespoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent treat that satisfies chocolate lovers.
Common Questions
- How long does it take to prep these muffins? Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 18-22 minutes.
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes! Just thaw and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before adding them to the batter.
- What should I do if I have leftovers? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
Enjoy these Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins as a sweet indulgence that combines simplicity with bursts of flavor. Happy baking!
