Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Muffins

These Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Muffins combine the irresistible flavors of cinnamon, cream cheese, and soft, moist muffins. With a creamy center of sweetened cream cheese and a beautiful cinnamon swirl on top, these muffins are a delightful treat for breakfast or a snack. They’re easy to make and perfect for cozy mornings or holiday brunches.

Ingredients:

For the muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the cream cheese filling:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cinnamon swirl:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the glaze (optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Muffin Batter:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and sour cream, alternating between the two, until the batter is smooth and well combined.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
   In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Muffins:
   Spoon about 2 tablespoons of muffin batter into each lined muffin cup. Add a dollop of the cream cheese mixture to the center of the batter, then cover with more batter, filling the muffin cups about two-thirds full.
4. Create the Cinnamon Swirl:
   In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the cinnamon sugar mixture and stir until combined. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture on top of each muffin and use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl it into the batter.
5. Bake the Muffins:
   Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
   If you want an extra touch of sweetness, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins before serving.

Additional Tips (Serving & Storage):

Serve these muffins warm for a melty cream cheese center and fresh cinnamon swirl. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

FAQs About Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Muffins:

1. Can I freeze these muffins?
   Yes! These muffins freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.
2. Can I use different spices for the swirl?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice to create different flavor variations.
3. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
   If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese for a similar creamy filling.
4. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
5. Can I skip the glaze?
   Yes! The muffins are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness if you prefer a more indulgent treat.

These Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect combination of sweet cinnamon, creamy filling, and moist muffin batter. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a treat with coffee, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite. With a delicious cinnamon swirl and a surprise cream cheese center, every bite is pure comfort.