Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and creamy flavors wrapped in a soft, fluffy muffin. Infused with the bright zest of lemons and a rich cream cheese filling, these muffins are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack any time of the day. They’re easy to make, stunning to present, and absolutely delightful to eat. Whether you’re a lemon lover or just craving something indulgent yet refreshing, this recipe will hit the spot every single time.

With their tender crumb, luscious cream cheese filling, and a lightly sweetened glaze, Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are a versatile treat that will brighten your day. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead baking, making them a go-to option for busy mornings, gatherings, or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Refreshing: The citrusy flavor of lemons makes these muffins light and uplifting.
• Decadent Cream Cheese Filling: The creamy center adds richness, perfectly balancing the tangy lemon flavor.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and steps, even beginner bakers can create these muffins effortlessly.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, add mix-ins like poppy seeds, or make a healthier version to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual breakfasts to elegant tea parties, these muffins fit any setting.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 muffins
• Serving Size: 1 muffin

Nutritional Information (per muffin)

• Calories: 260
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze (Optional):

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

For Garnish:

• Lemon zest
• Poppy seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until the sugar is fragrant and slightly moist.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, buttermilk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Add the lemon sugar mixture.
2. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Assemble the Muffins

1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup.
2. Add a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of cream cheese filling in the center of each muffin cup.
3. Cover the cream cheese filling with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring the filling is fully enclosed.

Step 7: Bake the Muffins

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the muffin (not the filling) comes out clean.
2. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Lemon Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or sugar as needed.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins and garnish with additional lemon zest or poppy seeds, if desired.

Ingredient Background

Lemons

Lemons are the star of this recipe, it’s providing a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the richness of the cream cheese. Use fresh lemons for the best results; both the juice and zest are essential for maximizing flavor.

Cream Cheese

The cream cheese filling creates a luscious center that adds creaminess and richness to the muffins. Ensure it’s softened to blend smoothly.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the muffins, enhancing their tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a substitute by combining milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Flour

All-purpose flour is the foundation of these muffins. For a lighter texture, you can use a combination of all-purpose and cake flour.

Baking Powder and Baking Soda

These leavening agents ensure the muffins rise properly, giving them a light and fluffy texture.

Technique Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese to room temperature to ensure smooth blending.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in dense muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Even Filling: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon for consistent batter and filling portions.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese center); if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats. Reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes.
• Bundt Muffins: Bake the batter in a mini bundt pan for a fancier presentation.
• Layered Cake: Transform the batter and filling into a layered lemon cream cheese cake.

Additional Tips for Success

• Line the muffin tin for easy removal and cleaner edges.
• Let the muffins cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
• Double the cream cheese filling for extra indulgence.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic twist.
• Blueberry Lemon Muffins: Fold 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter for a fruity addition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and a flaxseed egg replacement.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

• Let the muffins cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Bring refrigerated muffins to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce the sugar by 25% for a less sweet muffin.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of butter for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Serve with fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast.
• Pair with a mimosa or lemonade for a brunch party.
• Include them as part of a dessert buffet alongside cookies and cakes.

Special Equipment

• Zester for the lemon zest
• Muffin tin with liners
• Electric mixer or hand whisk for the cream cheese filling
• Small cookie scoop for evenly portioning batter and filling

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

2. Can I skip the cream cheese filling?

Yes, you can skip the filling or replace it with a lemon curd for a different flavor twist.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Make a substitute by combining 1/2 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

4. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk as substitutes.

5. How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking?

Ensure the filling is thick enough and fully encased in the muffin batter to prevent it from sinking.

6. Can I add a crumb topping?

Yes, mix together butter, sugar, and flour to create a crumb topping for added texture.

7. How do I keep muffins moist?

Do not overbake, and store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in two batches or use a larger muffin tin.

Conclusion

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are a versatile, easy-to-make treat that delivers a burst of bright, tangy flavor with a creamy, indulgent surprise inside. Their light, fluffy texture and vibrant taste make them perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to dessert or even as a delightful snack. With endless variations and adaptability to dietary preferences, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking them for a family breakfast, sharing them at a brunch, or enjoying them as a sweet treat with coffee, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious harmony of citrus, cream, and warmth!

Print