If you’re looking for a delightful treat that balances richness and fluffiness with bursts of sweet surprises, the Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe is your perfect match. These muffins boast a tender crumb infused with the creamy goodness of cream cheese, and whether you opt for melty chocolate chips or juicy blueberries, every bite promises a little moment of joy. They are wonderfully simple to make yet feel like an indulgence, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up these muffins requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From creamy butter and cream cheese for moisture and richness to fluffy flour and leavening that give the muffins their lift, these basics come together to make a truly irresistible treat.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds a rich, tangy creaminess that keeps muffins moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Enhances flavor and creates a soft crumb with a slight buttery richness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the other flavors.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and stability while enriching the batter.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The backbone of the muffin, giving it structure and softness.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Leavens the muffins so they rise beautifully with a light texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Keeps the batter moist and smooth, aiding in softness.
- Chocolate chips or blueberries (1/2 cup): The star mix-ins that bring bursts of chocolatey sweetness or fresh fruity flavor.
How to Make Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is essential because it helps create the tender, moist texture we’re aiming for. Be sure to scrape down the bowl sides to blend everything evenly.
Step 2: Incorporate Sugar and Eggs
Next, gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until it’s fully combined and smooth. Then, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Lastly, mix in the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely aromatic note to the muffins.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed, so your muffins rise uniformly and have a consistent crumb.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gradually
Alternately add your dry ingredients and milk to the cream cheese mixture—start with about one-third of the dry mix, then half the milk, and repeat the process until all ingredients are incorporated. Mixing on low speed is key here to avoid overworking the batter, which could cause tough muffins. A few flour streaks left unmixed are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Fold in Your Chocolate Chips or Blueberries
Gently fold in your choice of mix-ins—whether you love the melty richness of chocolate chips or the juicy burst of fresh blueberries—making sure not to smash or overmix the batter.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease. Fill each cup about two-thirds full with batter and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The muffins are done when golden on top and a wooden skewer inserted into a center comes out clean. Let them cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe
Garnishes
These muffins are already flavorful, but you can elevate them by dusting with powdered sugar or spreading a thin layer of softened butter or cream cheese frosting for an extra special touch. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can also add a charming layer of sweetness.
Side Dishes
Serve these muffins alongside fresh fruit or a crisp salad for a light brunch. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa to make a cozy morning or afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, arrange these muffins on a tiered stand or serve them with small bowls of assorted toppings like chopped nuts, extra chocolate chips, or blueberry compote. They also make excellent portable snacks when wrapped individually in parchment paper and tied with a ribbon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerating will extend freshness for about 4 to 5 days but may require warming before serving.
Freezing
Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen muffins can be kept for up to three months, perfect for a convenient grab-and-go morning treat.
Reheating
To reheat, simply unwrap and microwave a muffin for 20 to 30 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes until heated through. This brings back the fresh-baked texture and flavor wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to toss frozen blueberries lightly in flour before folding them into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom or bleeding too much color.
Can I substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt?
While Greek yogurt can add moisture and tanginess, it will change the texture and richness of the muffins. The signature creamy texture comes from cream cheese, so substitutions may yield denser muffins.
What’s the best way to avoid overmixing the batter?
Mix the dry and wet ingredients on low speed and stop as soon as the flour is just incorporated. It’s okay if you see a few flour streaks; this prevents tough muffins caused by gluten development.
Can I use other mix-ins besides chocolate chips or blueberries?
Definitely! Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or even small chunks of fresh fruit work wonderfully. Just be sure not to overload the batter to maintain good muffin structure.
How long will these muffins stay fresh at room temperature?
Stored in an airtight container, these muffins will stay fresh and soft for up to two days at room temperature before refrigeration or freezing is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe, you’ll have a new favorite go-to for breakfast or anytime indulgence. The combination of creamy batter and delightful mix-ins makes every muffin a small celebration. So, gather your ingredients, bake a batch, and watch how quickly these disappear at your table—they’re just that good. Happy baking!
Print
Cream Cheese Muffins with Chocolate Chips or Blueberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cream Cheese Muffins offer a rich, moist texture with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang from the cream cheese. Enhanced with your choice of chocolate chips, blueberries, or other mix-ins, they make a delightful breakfast or snack treat. Easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection, these muffins boast a tender crumb and a deliciously creamy flavor.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, blueberries, or other mix-ins
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add granulated sugar to the cream cheese mixture, continuing to beat on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition for a smooth batter. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while alternating with milk. Start by adding about one-third of the dry ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, then half of the milk, mixing on low speed until just combined. Repeat with another third of the dry ingredients and the remaining milk, finishing with the last third of the dry ingredients. Avoid overmixing to maintain muffin tenderness.
- Fold in Mix-ins: If using chocolate chips, blueberries, or other mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter without overworking it, to preserve muffin texture.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat while preparing the muffin tin.
- Prepare Muffin Tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the tin thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
- Cool Muffins: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their shape and texture.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough muffins; slight streaks of flour are acceptable.
- Softened cream cheese and butter are crucial for a smooth, fluffy batter.
- Choose your preferred mix-ins such as chocolate chips or fresh blueberries for added flavor and texture.
- If using frozen berries, do not thaw before adding to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- Muffins are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat muffins briefly in the microwave or oven for a fresh-baked taste.
