Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins: Soft, Bakery-Style Muffins with a Creamy Center

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful balance of fruity freshness and rich creaminess. These muffins are soft, moist, and filled with a lightly sweetened cream cheese center that makes every bite feel special. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. I love this recipe because it feels indulgent without being overly heavy, and it is surprisingly easy to make at home. The strawberries add natural sweetness and bursts of flavor, while the cream cheese filling creates a bakery-style texture that elevates a simple muffin into something memorable. The first time I baked these, they disappeared quickly, which told me everything I needed to know. Whether you are baking for guests, family, or meal prep, these muffins are reliable, comforting, and always well received.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
All-purpose flour provides structure and ensures the muffins remain soft and tender.

Granulated sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the muffins and helps create a light crumb.

Butter
Butter adds richness and moisture, contributing to a classic muffin texture.

Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients and help the muffins rise evenly.

Milk
Milk adds moisture and keeps the batter smooth and balanced.

Baking powder
Baking powder gives the muffins lift and a soft, airy texture.

Salt
Salt balances sweetness and enhances the strawberry flavor.

Fresh strawberries
Fresh strawberries provide natural sweetness, moisture, and bright flavor throughout the muffins.

Cream cheese
Cream cheese creates the rich, creamy filling that sets these muffins apart.

Powdered sugar
Powdered sugar lightly sweetens the cream cheese filling while keeping it smooth.

Vanilla extract
Vanilla extract enhances both the muffin batter and the cream cheese filling.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in the vanilla extract and milk.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, being careful not to overmix.

In another bowl, mix cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, add a spoonful of cream cheese filling, then top with more batter until cups are about three-quarters full.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are set and lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Equipment needed :

A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking time is approximately 25 minutes. Total time is around 45 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days due to the cream cheese filling. Allow to come to room temperature before serving, or warm briefly if desired.

Variations and Customizations

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are easy to customize. You can substitute raspberries or blueberries for strawberries, or use a combination of berries for added flavor. When I tested these with blueberries, the muffins became slightly juicier and equally delicious.

For added texture, sprinkle coarse sugar or a light crumb topping on the muffins before baking. You can also add lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with strawberries. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cream cheese, though full-fat provides the creamiest result. These variations allow you to tailor the muffins while keeping their soft texture and creamy center.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

These muffins contain dairy, eggs, and gluten. They are a sweet baked treat best enjoyed in moderation and can be adapted with alternative ingredients if needed.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do not overmix
Overmixing can result in dense muffins.

Use room-temperature cream cheese
This ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.

Chop strawberries evenly
Even pieces distribute flavor consistently.

Fill muffin cups carefully
This helps keep the cream cheese centered.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, use them frozen and do not thaw before adding.

Do these muffins need refrigeration?

Yes, due to the cream cheese filling.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, freeze individually and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Why did my muffins sink?

Overfilling or excess moisture from fruit can cause sinking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they are great for make-ahead breakfasts.

What size muffin tin should I use?

A standard 12-cup muffin tin works best.

Can I add a glaze?

Yes, a light vanilla or lemon glaze works well.

Are these muffins very sweet?

They are balanced, not overly sweet.

Can I make them mini muffins?

Yes, reduce baking time accordingly.

How do I keep them moist?

Store properly and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cream Cheese Muffins are soft, flavorful, and filled with a creamy surprise that makes them truly special. Easy to prepare and beautifully balanced, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. With their fresh fruit flavor and rich center, these muffins are a dependable recipe you will enjoy baking and sharing again and again.

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