Why Make This Recipe
Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that combine the rich flavor of cream cheese with the bright, refreshing taste of lemon. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The creamy texture and zesty flavor will leave you craving more. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious recipe to impress family and friends, this is the one to try!
How to Make Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the lemon zest.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow muffins to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
These muffins are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them on their own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra special treat, consider topping them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze.
How to Store Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
- Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- You can add more lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you want, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Variation
If you want to try a different flavor, consider adding blueberries or poppy seeds to the batter. The bright lemon pairs well with these additional ingredients.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese; however, it may affect the texture slightly.
2. How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the muffins are done.
3. Can I add more lemon juice?
Yes, you can increase the lemon juice for a stronger flavor. Just be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the batter’s consistency.
Luscious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened Make sure it is at room temperature.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it is at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs Add one at a time.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour You can substitute some with whole wheat flour.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup lemon juice Adjust for stronger flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, butter, and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon juice.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the lemon zest.
- Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
Baking
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow muffins to cool for a few minutes in the tin before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
