When it comes to decadent, sweet treats, nothing hits the spot quite like Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins. These moist, flavorful muffins combine the warmth of cinnamon with the creamy richness of cream cheese, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, these muffins are a delight for any occasion. With their soft, gooey center and a hint of spice, they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

A Brief History of Cinnamon and Cream Cheese in Baking

Cinnamon has been cherished in baking for centuries, valued for its aromatic spice and ability to add warmth to both sweet and savory dishes. From cinnamon rolls to coffee cakes, its versatility makes it a staple ingredient in many traditional bakes. Cream cheese, on the other hand, became popular in the 19th century, primarily in America, and has since been a beloved addition to many desserts for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. Combining cinnamon with cream cheese in baked goods is a natural match, with each ingredient enhancing the other to create an irresistible flavor profile.

Ingredients for Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Here’s everything you need to whip up a batch of these heavenly muffins:

For the Muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% preferred)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

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

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing on top)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups generously with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Set the mixture aside for later. This filling will create that gooey, creamy center.

Step 3: Make the Muffin Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. The batter should be slightly thick but still pourable.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Spoon a tablespoon of muffin batter into the bottom of each prepared muffin cup. Add about a teaspoon of cream cheese filling into the center of the batter. Then, cover the cream cheese with another tablespoon of muffin batter, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.

Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Brush the tops of each muffin with melted butter, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over each muffin. This topping will bake into a sweet, crunchy layer.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the muffin (but not into the cream cheese center) comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The muffins can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, but for the ultimate gooey experience, they are best served slightly warm.

Tips for the Best Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

• Use room temperature ingredients: For the creamiest filling and the best muffin texture, ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in tough muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Customize the filling: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cream cheese filling for an extra burst of flavor.

Why These Muffins Stand Out

What makes these Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins so special is the contrast of textures and flavors. The outside of the muffin is lightly crispy and sweet from the cinnamon-sugar topping, while the inside remains soft, moist, and delightfully gooey thanks to the cream cheese filling. The warmth of the cinnamon combined with the tanginess of the cream cheese creates an irresistible balance of sweet and tangy, making each bite a perfect indulgence.

These muffins are also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious start to your day, or serve them as a sweet treat at brunch gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), these muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. To enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.