Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins are the perfect balance of flavors with a soft, moist texture. The lemon zest adds a refreshing citrusy zing, while the cream cheese filling creates a rich, velvety center that complements the light muffin perfectly. The sweetness is just right, making it an ideal choice for those who love a bit of indulgence in their baked goods. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have these muffins ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.

6. Spoon a small amount of muffin batter into each muffin cup, just enough to cover the bottom.

7. Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each muffin, then top with a bit more muffin batter to cover the cream cheese filling.

8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin comes out clean and the tops are golden.

9. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 18-22 minutes

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

• Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar and lemon juice) over the cooled muffins for an extra sweet touch.

• Add-ins: Consider adding blueberries or poppy seeds to the batter for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.

• Cream Cheese Swirl: For a more dramatic cream cheese effect, swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter instead of layering it.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the muffins in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use light cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese?

Yes, you can use light cream cheese, though the texture might be slightly different. The taste will still be similar.

2. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the muffins a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for a couple of days.

3. Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, you can freeze these muffins. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

4. How do I know when the muffins are done?

Test the muffins by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the muffins are done.

5. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice will give the muffins a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

6. What can I substitute for butter?

You can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a different flavor or to make it dairy-free.

7. Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute such as a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce to replace the egg.

8. Can I add other fruits to the muffins?

Yes, you can add fruits like blueberries or raspberries to the batter for extra flavor and color.

9. Can I make these muffins with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture and more fiber.

10. How can I make the muffins fluffier?

Be sure not to overmix the batter and to avoid packing the flour too tightly. Using room-temperature ingredients, especially the butter and egg, will also help with a fluffier texture.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors with a creamy, luscious center. These muffins are incredibly easy to make and are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack. With their soft, tender crumb and refreshing lemony zing, they are sure to be a hit at any occasion.