Name: Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk; Zest and juice of 2 lemons; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

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There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins wafting through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and making your mouth water. Picture this: golden muffin tops that are slightly domed, with a tender crumb inside, bursting with zesty lemon flavor and a creamy surprise that will make you swoon with delight. cozy pumpkin spice oatmeal These delightful morsels are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack when you need a little pick-me-up to brighten your day.

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Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of lemon?
How long do these muffins stay fresh?
Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins?
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I remember the first time I whipped up these muffins for a family gathering. My cousin, who is notoriously picky about his desserts, took one bite and declared it “life-changing.” Suddenly, I was the family hero, all thanks to these scrumptious and simple Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins. flaky blueberry danish Whether you’re hosting friends or just indulging yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, these muffins will always impress and satisfy. For more inspiration, check out this Blueberry Lemon Donuts recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, so you can whip them up anytime
The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy filling for a delightful treat
Visually appealing with their golden tops, they look as good as they taste
Ideal for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day

I once made these muffins for a brunch party, and guests practically fought over the last one! spiced chai granola.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious gingerbread rolls.

All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your muffins; sifted flour ensures a light texture.
Baking Powder: Provides the necessary lift; double-check it’s fresh for best results.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; you can adjust according to your taste.
Salt: A pinch enhances flavors; don’t skip it!
Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing; they help bind everything together.
Milk: Whole milk adds moisture; substitute with almond milk if desired.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly grated zest and juice give that vibrant citrus kick.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese makes for a rich filling—don’t skimp on quality!
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor; pure vanilla extract is always best.
Butter: Melted unsalted butter brings richness; let it cool before mixing in.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease them lightly to prevent sticking. The aroma of baking muffins should fill your kitchen in no time!

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined. This step helps ensure even distribution of baking powder throughout the batter.

Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy. Add milk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth—a little arm workout won’t hurt!

Combine Ingredients Carefully: Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and fold gently using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing; lumpy batter is okay! Your goal is tenderness.

Add Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with some sugar and lemon zest—this will be our creamy surprise! Spoon about half the muffin batter into each liner then add a dollop of cream cheese mixture before topping off with more batter. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Blueberry Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread recipe.

Bake Until Perfectly Golden Brown: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell is simply heavenly!

Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely—if you can resist that long!

These Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins not only shine in flavor but also have an inviting appearance that makes them irresistible at any gathering. Enjoy their delightful burst of lemony goodness along with that velvety cream cheese center—it truly feels like sunshine in every bite!

You Must Know

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that combines tangy lemon zest with smooth cream cheese
The aroma of these muffins baking will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eager to taste this scrumptious and simple recipe

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by creaming the butter and sugar together before adding the eggs and cream cheese. Mix in your dry ingredients gradually for a fluffy texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out lemon for orange or add poppy seeds for a fun twist. Experimenting with flavors keeps the recipe exciting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them in a microwave for about 10 seconds for that freshly baked feel.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the perfect muffin rise, avoid overmixing the batter; just stir until combined
Use room-temperature ingredients for better blending and texture
Fresh lemon zest adds vibrant flavor, so don’t skimp on it!

Sometimes, I bake these muffins when friends come over, and they disappear faster than I can say “lemon.” Their smiles say it all!

FAQ

Can I use other fruits instead of lemon?

Yes, try using orange or lime juice for different flavor profiles.

How long do these muffins stay fresh?

These delicious muffins last up to three days when stored correctly.

Can I freeze Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins?

Absolutely! Freeze them individually for easy reheating later.

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