Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe: Sweet Morning Magic

Decadent cinnamon cream cheese muffins promise a delightful morning surprise that melts in your mouth.

Soft clouds of pastry embrace a rich, tangy filling waiting to dance across your taste buds.

Warm spices whisper sweet promises of comfort and indulgence.

Baking these treats fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone near.

Simple ingredients combine to create magic in mere minutes.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy texture and gentle sweetness.

You’ll want to savor every crumb of these irresistible morning delights.

What You’ll Need For Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

For the Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundational base that provides structure and texture to the muffins.
  • Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeteners that add depth and moisture to the muffin batter.
For the Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the muffins' rich texture.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Vegetable Oil: Provides moisture and ensures the muffins remain soft.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the entire recipe.
For the Filling and Topping:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a creamy, tangy filling that adds richness to the muffins.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cream cheese filling.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the crumbly topping.
  • Melted Butter: Helps bind the cinnamon topping and creates a crisp, golden layer.
  • Paper Liners or Cooking Spray: Prevents the muffins from sticking to the pan.

How To Make Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray generously with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar

Ensure the mixture is completely combined with no lumps.

Step 3: Create Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, blend:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until the filling becomes smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract vigorously until the mixture becomes light and well-integrated.

Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredient mixture. Stir minimally to prevent overmixing. The batter should appear slightly lumpy.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Topping

In a small bowl, mix:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Melted butter

Combine until the mixture forms a crumbly consistency.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Carefully place a dollop of cream cheese filling in the center of each.

Step 8: Cover Cream Cheese Filling

Cover the cream cheese filling with remaining batter, ensuring it’s completely sealed.

Step 9: Add Cinnamon Topping

Sprinkle the cinnamon topping generously over each muffin, creating a delectable crumbly layer.

Step 10: Bake Muffins

Bake for 18-22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with minimal crumbs.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Baking Tips For Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes to achieve a smooth, lump-free filling that blends easily.
  • Prevent Overmixing Batter: Stir wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined, keeping the texture light and preventing tough, dense muffins.
  • Create Perfect Cream Cheese Pocket: Use a small spoon to create a well in the center of each muffin cup before adding the cream cheese filling for an even distribution.
  • Control Cinnamon Topping Texture: Mix cinnamon topping ingredients until they form small, crumbly clusters that will create a delightful, crispy surface when baked.
  • Ensure Even Baking: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to guarantee uniform browning and consistent texture across all muffins.

Tasty Twists On Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same tender texture for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Cream Cheese Swap: Use dairy-free cream cheese and replace eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs to create a plant-based version of these muffins.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Substitute granulated and brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining sweetness.
  • Fruit-Infused Version: Add fresh blueberries or diced apples to the batter for a fruity burst of flavor and extra moisture in the muffins.

What To Serve With Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Pair with Creamy Café Latte: The rich, smooth espresso-based drink complements the muffins' sweet cinnamon notes, creating a harmonious breakfast experience.
  • Recommend Vanilla Bourbon Whipped Cream: Drizzle or dollop this luxurious cream alongside the muffins to enhance their decadent cream cheese and cinnamon profile.
  • Serve with Fresh Berry Compote: The bright, tart berry sauce cuts through the muffins' sweetness, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the rich, creamy texture.
  • Match with Chilled Apple Cider: The crisp, slightly tangy beverage echoes the warm cinnamon flavors, delivering a cozy autumn-inspired pairing.

How To Keep Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Fresh

  • Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place a paper towel between layers to prevent sticking and maintain moisture.
  • Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Warm muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Add a sprinkle of water to prevent drying out.
  • Remove muffins from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.

Questions About Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

  • How do I know if I've overmixed the batter?

Look for a smooth, uniform batter without lumps. Overmixing leads to tough, dense muffins. Stir just until ingredients are combined, keeping the batter slightly lumpy for tender results.

  • Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or raw sugar. For granulated sugar, white sugar works best. Each sugar type slightly changes the flavor and texture of the muffins.

  • What's the purpose of the cream cheese filling?

The cream cheese filling adds a rich, tangy center that creates a delightful surprise when you bite into the muffin. It provides moisture and a creamy texture that complements the cinnamon topping.

Why Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Feel So Cozy

  • Create Bakery-Style Magic: Transform your kitchen into a cozy bakery with these professional-looking muffins that rival any cafe's display case.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or weekend treat sessions where everyone craves something special and delicious.
  • Master Multiple Techniques: Learn exciting baking skills like creating cream cheese filling, mixing batters, and developing a crumbly cinnamon topping – all in one recipe.
  • Versatile Breakfast Superstar: Adaptable for various occasions, from quick morning grab-and-go breakfasts to potluck desserts that will make everyone smile.
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Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe


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4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 43-42 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent “gooey cinnamon cream cheese muffins” offer a delightful morning escape from ordinary breakfast fare. Sweet cinnamon swirls and rich cream cheese create a comforting companion that welcomes you into delicious moments of pure morning bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil

Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Topping:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Leavening and Binding:

  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or generously grease with cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until thoroughly combined and free of lumps.
  3. Create the cream cheese filling by blending softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  4. In another bowl, vigorously whisk eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and well-integrated.
  5. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing. The batter should appear slightly lumpy.
  6. Prepare the cinnamon topping by mixing granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until it forms a crumbly consistency.
  7. Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, then carefully place a dollop of cream cheese filling in the center of each.
  8. Cover the cream cheese filling with remaining batter, ensuring it’s completely sealed.
  9. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon topping over each muffin, creating a delectable crumbly layer.
  10. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with minimal crumbs.
  11. Remove from oven and allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth, lump-free filling that blends effortlessly.
  • Avoid overmixing batter to maintain tender, soft muffin texture with delicate crumb structure.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with equal parts almond flour and gluten-free baking blend.
  • Create dairy-free alternative by using coconut cream instead of cream cheese and plant-based milk substitute.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 229
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 144 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 34 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

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