Get ready to experience a sweet delight with these Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins. They are packed full of flavor, with the sweetness of ripe strawberries contrasted against the creamy tang of cheesecake. The streusel topping adds an extra dimension of texture, making every bite a symphony of taste. Whether you're looking for a tasty breakfast option or a sweet treat, these muffins are perfect for any occasion.
Most ingredients for this recipe are common to a standard pantry and fridge, like all-purpose flour, eggs, butter, and sugars. However, you'll need fresh strawberries and cream cheese, which might not be readily available at home. When shopping, ensure you pick ripe but firm strawberries for the best flavor. The cream cheese should be of good quality as it's the key ingredient for our cheesecake filling.
Ingredients for Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
Light brown sugar: This sugar has a soft texture and caramel-like flavor that gives the streusel a rich taste.
All purpose flour: Used as the main dry ingredient in both the muffin and streusel recipe.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm and sweet flavor to the streusel.
Unsalted butter: Used for the streusel and muffin for a creamy texture.
Granulated sugar: Used in the muffin recipe to add sweetness.
Eggs: They are essential for structure and rise in the muffins.
Yogurt: Adds moisture and helps tenderize the wheat, making the muffins softer.
Pure vanilla extract: It gives a sweet, creamy flavor that enhances the other flavors.
Baking soda and baking powder: Acts as leavening agents that help the muffins rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
Strawberries: Adds a fresh and fruity flavor to the muffins.
Cream cheese: Provides the creamy, tangy characteristic to the cheesecake filling.
Egg yolk: It gives richness to the cheesecake filling.
One reader, Korie Borders says:
These strawberry cheesecake muffins are a delightful treat! The combination of the creamy cheesecake filling and the juicy strawberries is simply divine. The streusel topping adds a perfect crunch. The recipe is easy to follow and the muffins turn out moist and flavorful. A definite crowd-pleaser!
Techniques Required for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
How to make streusel: Combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
How to make muffin batter: Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the strawberries.
How to make cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese until creamy, then add egg yolk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Beat until combined.
How to assemble the muffins: Spoon muffin batter into the muffin cups, layer with cheesecake filling, then top with more muffin batter. Sprinkle with streusel topping and press gently.
How to bake the muffins: Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 5 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
How to cool the muffins: Allow the muffins to cool for 10 minutes in the muffin tin, then transfer to a wire rack to cool until ready to eat.
How To Make Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
With these strawberry cheesecake muffins, you’ll get a taste of the soft and moist flavor of muffins with the cheesecake filling that you’ve always wanted.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Streusel:
- ¼cuplight brown sugar,(50 grams)
- ½cupall purpose flour,(62 grams), spoon & leveled
- 1tspground cinnamon
- ¼cupunsalted butter,(60 grams), cold
For the Muffins:
- ½cupunsalted butter,(115 grams), softened to room temperature
- ½cupgranulated sugar,(100 grams)
- ¼cuplight or dark brown sugar,(50 grams), packed
- 2large eggs,room temperature
- ½cupyogurt,(120 grams)
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 1¾cupsall purpose flour,(220 grams), spoon & leveled
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspbaking powder
- ½tspsalt
- 1¼cupsstrawberries,fresh or frozen, (250 grams) do not thaw, chopped
For the Cheesecake filling:
- 6ozcream cheese,(168 grams), softened to room temperature
- 1egg yolk
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- 3tbspgranulated sugar,(36 grams)
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (218 degrees C). Spray two 12-count muffin pans with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. Set aside.
Streusel:
-
In a small bowl, toss together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter in very small pieces using a pastry knife or mix with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
Muffins:
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In a medium bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy for about 1 minute.
-
Add the granulated and brown sugars and beat on high until creamy for about 2 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
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Add the eggs, yogurt, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute then turn up to high speed until the mixture is combined and uniform in texture. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
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In a large bowl, toss together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and slowly mix until combined and little lumps remain.
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Fold in the strawberries with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.
Cheesecake filling:
-
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric handheld or stand mixer on medium-high speed until creamy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Beat until combined.
-
Spoon 1 Tablespoon of strawberry muffin batter into the muffin cups. Layer with about 1 spoonful of cheesecake filling then another Tablespoon of muffin batter.
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Sprinkle each muffin evenly with streusel topping and gently press the streusel down into the muffin so it sticks.
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Bake the muffins for 5 minutes at 425 degrees F (218 degrees C).
-
Keeping the muffins in the oven, lower the temperature down to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C), and bake for an additional 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
-
Allow the muffins to cool for 10 minutes in the muffin sheet then transfer to a wire rack to cool until ready to eat.
Nutrition
- Calories: 166.70kcal
- Fat: 9.03g
- Saturated Fat: 5.32g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.38g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.49g
- Carbohydrates: 19.02g
- Fiber: 0.53g
- Sugar: 9.62g
- Protein: 2.54g
- Cholesterol: 45.30mg
- Sodium: 124.22mg
- Calcium: 38.74mg
- Potassium: 55.80mg
- Iron: 0.75mg
- Vitamin A: 84.74µg
- Vitamin C: 4.68mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
When incorporating the strawberries into the muffin batter, be sure to gently fold them in rather than stirring vigorously. This will help to keep the berries intact and prevent them from releasing too much juice into the batter, which could affect the overall texture of the muffins. Additionally, when layering the cheesecake filling and the muffin batter, ensure to distribute them evenly to achieve a balanced flavor in every bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.
Plan ahead: Make a schedule and plan out the steps of the recipe in advance to streamline the process and avoid any last-minute confusion.
Multi-task: While the muffins are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen and prepare the next steps of the recipe to maximize efficiency.
Use pre-cut strawberries: Save time by using pre-cut strawberries, or consider using frozen strawberries to skip the washing and cutting process.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work through the recipe to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins Recipe
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has a slightly stronger molasses flavor, which can add a deeper caramel note to the streusel.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the muffins, as well as a slightly denser texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the streusel and muffins, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins, as well as a subtle floral flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the muffins, while also reducing the overall fat content.
yogurt - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can provide a tangy flavor and moisture to the muffins, while also contributing to a tender crumb.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can offer a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to the cheesecake filling, while also reducing the overall fat content.
strawberries - Substitute with raspberries: Raspberries can provide a similar tartness and fruity flavor to the muffins, while also adding a vibrant color and juiciness.
Presenting Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
Elevate the streusel topping: Create a delicate and visually appealing streusel topping by using a fine mesh sieve to dust a light layer of powdered sugar over the muffins. This adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Incorporate fresh strawberry garnish: Adorn the plate with a vibrant and fresh strawberry slice to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal of the muffins. This not only adds a decorative element but also signifies the key ingredient in the dish.
Utilize a minimalist plating approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style by arranging the muffins on a pristine white plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the strawberries and the golden streusel topping to stand out and take center stage.
Implement a symmetrical layout: Arrange the muffins in a symmetrical pattern on the plate to create a visually pleasing presentation. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and artistry in the plating.
Incorporate a drizzle of strawberry coulis: Introduce a drizzle of homemade strawberry coulis on the plate to add a touch of finesse and elevate the overall visual appeal. The vibrant red coulis complements the muffins and adds a gourmet touch to the presentation.
Use edible flowers as a garnish: Enhance the aesthetic appeal by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or violas, on the plate. The addition of these floral accents adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the presentation.
Create a contrast with a dark backdrop: Consider using a dark, sleek plate to create a striking contrast that accentuates the colors and textures of the muffins, streusel topping, and strawberry garnish, resulting in a visually captivating presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
- Oven: Used for baking the muffins at the specified temperature.
- Muffin pans: Used to hold the muffin batter and ensure uniform baking.
- Nonstick spray or cupcake liners: Used to prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing the streusel ingredients.
- Pastry knife or fork: Used to cut in the butter and mix the streusel ingredients.
- Handheld or stand mixer: Used to beat the butter, cream cheese, and other ingredients to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Paddle attachment: Used with the mixer for beating the muffin batter.
- Large bowl: Used for mixing the dry ingredients and combining the wet and dry ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or rubber spatula: Used for folding in the strawberries and mixing the batter.
- Electric handheld or stand mixer: Used for beating the cream cheese, egg yolk, and other cheesecake filling ingredients.
- Wire rack: Used for cooling the muffins after baking.
Storing and Freezing Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
- Allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled muffins in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess moisture and prevent the muffins from becoming soggy. Store the muffins at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap each cooled muffin individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. You can also microwave the muffin for 20-30 seconds to warm it up slightly.
- If you prefer a fresher taste, you can reheat the thawed muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
- For optimal flavor and texture, it's best to consume the strawberry cheesecake muffins within the first 1-2 days of baking. However, storing or freezing them properly can help extend their shelf life while maintaining their quality.
How to Reheat Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
The best way to reheat leftover strawberry cheesecake muffins is to warm them up in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the tops are slightly crispy.
Another option is to reheat the muffins in the microwave. Place a single muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. If the muffin is not warm enough, continue to heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the muffin, as it may become rubbery or tough.
If you want to restore some of the moisture to your leftover muffins, try wrapping them in a damp paper towel before reheating them in the microwave. This will help to steam the muffins and make them softer and more tender.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also cut the muffins in half and toast them in a toaster oven or under the broiler. This will give the muffins a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey center. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
If you have a lot of leftover muffins, you can freeze them for later. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to eat them, let the muffins thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or reheat them in the oven or microwave as described above.
Interesting Fact About Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins
The strawberry cheesecake muffins recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and creamy flavors. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the classic cheesecake taste in a portable muffin form. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a burst of fruity goodness to each bite. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of the day. They are a great option for using up ripe strawberries and are sure to be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in these strawberry cheesecake muffins.
Is Making Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this strawberry cheesecake muffins recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as strawberries, cream cheese, and flour, are relatively affordable and commonly found in households. The recipe yields a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. Considering the versatility and appeal of these muffins, the overall verdict rating is 9 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a budget-friendly indulgence.
Are Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?
The strawberry cheesecake muffins recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of butter, sugar, and cream cheese, which are high in saturated fats and added sugars. These ingredients can contribute to obesity, heart disease, and other health issues if consumed in excess.
However, the recipe does include some healthier ingredients, such as:
- Yogurt, which provides calcium and protein
- Strawberries, which are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants
- Eggs, which offer protein and essential nutrients
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase fiber content
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the muffin batter and cheesecake filling, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Swap out some of the butter for healthier fats, such as coconut oil or mashed avocado
- Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of full-fat cream cheese
- Increase the amount of strawberries or add other fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, for added nutrients and natural sweetness
- Opt for a smaller portion size to control calorie intake
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this strawberry cheesecake muffin recipe to be a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The incorporation of streusel adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy cheesecake filling complements the juicy strawberries perfectly. The balance of sweetness and tanginess is sure to tantalize the taste buds. The method of layering the batter and filling creates a visually appealing marbled effect, adding to the overall allure of the muffins. This recipe is a wonderful way to elevate traditional muffins into a gourmet treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Enhance Your Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Strawberry Cheesecake Muffins Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, ensuring a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. The strawberries are carefully selected for their freshness, while the cream cheese adds a rich and creamy element. The streusel topping, made with brown sugar and cinnamon, provides a delightful crunch. With meticulous attention to detail, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes, creating a truly irresistible treat. Trust in the expertise and passion behind this recipe for a memorable culinary adventure.
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