RecipeCastle

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Ingredients

  • 2 cupsall-purpose flour: This forms the base of the muffin (providing structure.)
  • 1/2 cupgranulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • 1/4 cupbrown sugar: Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
  • 1 tbspbaking powder: This leavening agent makes the muffins rise and become fluffy.
  • 1/2 tspsalt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • 1 tspground cinnamon: Provides a warm (comforting spice that defines this recipe.)
  • 1/2 cupbutter (melted: Adds richness and moisture to the muffins.)
  • 1 cupmilk: Keeps the batter moist and helps with the overall texture.
  • 2large eggs: Serve as a binding agent (giving the muffins structure.)
  • 1 tspvanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile (adding a pleasant sweetness.)
  • 8 ozcream cheese (softened: The key ingredient that provides the creamy, gooey center.)
  • 1/4 cupgranulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
  • 1/2 tspvanilla extract: Provides additional flavor to the filling.
  • 1/4 cupgranulated sugar: To sprinkle over the muffins for sweetness and texture.
  • 1 tspground cinnamon: Reinforces the warm spice notes of the muffins.
  • 2 tbspbutter (melted: Helps the topping adhere to the muffins and adds flavor.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tray with paper liners to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

  2. 2

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tbsp of baking powder, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of cinnamon until well combined.

  3. 3

    Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of milk, 2 large eggs, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined.

  4. 4

    Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this will lead to dense muffins.

  5. 5

    Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In another bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

  6. 6

    Assemble the Muffins: Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling them halfway. Add a dollop of the cream cheese filling into each muffin cup, then top with remaining batter until all liners are filled.

  7. 7

    Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 tsp of cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the muffins and drizzle with 2 tbsp of melted butter for added flavor.

  8. 8

    Bake: Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  9. 9

    Cool and Enjoy: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy this gooey, cinnamon-infused treat!