Name: Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 54 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1/2 cup yogurt (*); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 and 1/4 cups chopped strawberries (fresh or frozen (do not thaw)); 6 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese (softened to room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar

Introduction to Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

When it comes to the world of baked goods, strawberry cheesecake muffins stand out as a delectable treat that perfectly combines two beloved flavors. Imagine moist muffins bursting with juicy strawberries, like a sweet summer picnic in each bite, paired with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling. This irresistible combination creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe thirds!

But what truly makes these muffins hard to resist? With their golden-brown tops, a hint of cinnamon streusel, and that luscious layer of cheesecake, they appeal to both the eyes and the palate. They are versatile enough for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert! Plus, they're easier to prepare than you might think, requiring just a handful of ingredients and some straightforward steps.

Curious about making your own? The process is straightforward, and I promise the delightful aroma wafting through your home will have everyone asking what’s baking. If you're looking for a sweet escape to indulge your senses, these muffins might just be your new favorite baking project. Ready to dive in? Let’s get to the recipe!

Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

If you're craving a delightful treat that blends the richness of cheesecake with the light, fluffy goodness of muffins, you've come to the right place! Here’s a quick look at the essential ingredients you'll need to make these delicious strawberry cheesecake muffins.

Streusel Ingredients

To create that irresistible crumbly topping, you'll need:

¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar
½ cup (63g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

Muffin Ingredients

For the moist and flavorful muffin base, gather:

½ cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup (120g) yogurt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 and ¾ cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 and ¼ cups (250g) fresh or frozen (do not thaw) chopped strawberries

Cheesecake Filling Ingredients

And, of course, for that creamy cheesecake center, you'll need:

6 ounces (170g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 Tablespoons (36g) granulated sugar

With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to making some scrumptious strawberry cheesecake muffins that are sure to impress! Happy baking!

Preparing Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Making strawberry cheesecake muffins is an enjoyable baking experience that combines the joy of muffins with the deliciousness of cheesecake. These muffins are not only scrumptious but also a visual delight, thanks to the vibrant strawberries and the rich cheesecake filling. Let’s break down the steps to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly!

Preheat the oven and prepare muffin pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This initial high heat is crucial for creating those magical bakery-style domes on your muffins. While your oven heats up, prepare two 12-count muffin pans. You can either spray them with nonstick spray or line them with cupcake liners. Since this recipe makes 14 muffins, be ready for two batches!

Make the streusel topping

Everyone loves a crunchy topping, and the streusel in these strawberry cheesecake muffins adds that extra texture. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cut in ¼ cup cold unsalted butter into small pieces using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set your streusel aside while you work on the muffins.

Mix the muffin batter

Next, it's time for the batter! In a separate medium bowl, beat together ½ cup softened unsalted butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup packed brown sugar until creamy. Add in 2 large eggs, ½ cup yogurt, and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 and ¾ cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, then gently incorporate 1 and ¼ cups of chopped strawberries.

Create the cheesecake filling

Now for the indulgent part! In a medium bowl, beat 6 ounces of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer. Once it's creamy, add 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, mixing until smooth. This creamy filling will elevate your muffins to an entirely new level.

Assemble the muffins

To assemble, spoon 1 tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup, followed by a generous layer of cheesecake filling, and then another tablespoon of muffin batter on top. Fill the cups all the way to the brim and don’t worry if a bit of the cheesecake filling shows at the edges! Finish by sprinkling the streusel topping over each muffin and gently pressing it down to secure.

Bake to perfection

Place your muffin pans in the oven for 5 minutes at 425°F (218°C). Next, lower the heat to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for an additional 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

And there you have it! Your strawberry cheesecake muffins are ready to be devoured. Enjoy them warm or let them cool, but either way, they are sure to be a hit!

Variations on Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Want to enjoy strawberry cheesecake muffins while staying gluten-free? Subbing standard flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works wonders! Make sure to check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a spoonful of almond extract to the cheesecake filling for a nutty twist.

Vegan Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

For a vegan version, swap eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and use a plant-based yogurt and cream cheese. These substitutions not only keep the muffins creamy but also lend a unique flavor to your strawberry cheesecake muffins. Try adding a dash of maple syrup for sweetness, or even incorporate vegan chocolate chips for a delightful contrast!

Using these easy modifications, you can tailor your muffins to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying that classic strawberry cheesecake flavor. Happy baking!

Baking Notes for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Tips for Ensuring Moist Muffins

To keep your strawberry cheesecake muffins delightfully moist, use room temperature ingredients. This includes butter, eggs, and cream cheese, which ensure a smoother batter. Incorporating yogurt adds moisture and tang, while also reducing the overall fat content. Lastly, don’t over-mix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

How to Avoid Common Baking Mistakes

Baking can be tricky, but a little attention goes a long way. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately; using a kitchen scale can help. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to maintain consistent heat. Also, remember to check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready, but if it’s batter-coated, give them a few extra minutes. Enjoy your delicious creations!

Serving suggestions for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Best ways to enjoy them fresh

There's nothing quite like kicking off your day with a warm strawberry cheesecake muffin! Freshly baked, these muffins are irresistibly soft and rich, perfect for savoring with your morning coffee or tea. Enjoy them plain for a delightful treat, or spread a thin layer of cream cheese or butter to elevate the flavor even further. If you're feeling adventurous, try them with a drizzle of honey or agave syrup for added sweetness!

Pairing ideas for a delightful breakfast

These muffins are versatile and pair wonderfully with various breakfast options:

Turkey bacon or chicken ham for protein.
A side of Greek yogurt topped with fresh berries for a boost of flavor.
Fresh fruit juice or a smoothie for a refreshing twist.

Whether on a leisurely weekend or a busy weekday, these pairing ideas will ensure you have a satisfying, well-rounded start to your day! Happy munching!

Time Details for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Preparation Time
Gather your ingredients and mix things up in just 15 minutes! This includes preparing the muffin batter and the delightful cheesecake filling.

Baking Time
Pop those muffins in the oven for 23-24 minutes total, allowing them to rise and turn golden brown.

Total Time
In just about 40 minutes, you can have a batch of delicious strawberry cheesecake muffins ready to enjoy! Perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet snack.

By the way, if you want to learn more about measuring ingredients accurately, check out this helpful guide on how to measure baking ingredients. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

When you're indulging in delightful strawberry cheesecake muffins, it's always useful to know what you're consuming. Here’s a quick glimpse at their nutritional breakdown:

Calories

Each muffin contains approximately 230 calories, making them a satisfying treat without going overboard.

Protein

With about 4 grams of protein per muffin, these treats provide a little boost to your daily intake, thanks to the eggs and cream cheese in the filling.

Sugar Content

Each muffin has around 12 grams of sugar. While it's enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, be mindful if you're watching your sugar intake.

Enjoy these muffins guilt-free, knowing you're treating yourself to a tasty yet balanced snack! For more in-depth nutritional facts, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

FAQs about Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! In fact, using frozen strawberries can be a convenient option, especially when fresh ones are out of season. Just be sure not to thaw them before mixing them into the batter. This helps maintain their shape and provides a delightful burst of flavor when you bite into your strawberry cheesecake muffins.

How do I store leftover muffins?

Storing your leftover strawberry cheesecake muffins is simple! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up!

What other fillings can I use?

While the cheesecake filling is a star of the show, feel free to get creative! You can substitute the cream cheese with ricotta, add in chocolate chips, or even incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries. Mixing and matching can lead to delicious variations of these strawberry cheesecake muffins that will keep your taste buds intrigued. Explore this guide to muffin variations for more inspiration!

Conclusion on Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins

Why these muffins should be in your kitchen repertoire

These strawberry cheesecake muffins are not just delightful treats; they're a versatile addition to your baking collection. With their beautiful layers of fluffy muffin, creamy cheesecake, and a crunchy topping, they can elevate any breakfast or snack. Whether shared at gatherings or enjoyed solo, these muffins satisfy your sweet tooth while showcasing your baking prowess. Embrace the ease and joy of making these delicious muffins—your taste buds will thank you!