Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins

Dive into the sweet and spicy delight of these Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins. Each muffin is filled with a creamy center and topped with a crisp cinnamon sugar crust, perfect for a cozy breakfast or an indulgent snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar mixture (for topping)
• Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate, melted (for drizzle)

Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This mixture will ensure each muffin has a sweet and slightly spicy flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures:
   • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
5. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling:
   • In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. This filling will create a creamy surprise in the center of each muffin.
6. Assemble Muffins:
   • Fill each muffin liner halfway with the batter.
   • Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture to the center of each, then cover with more batter, ensuring the cream cheese is completely enclosed.
   • Sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon sugar mixture for a delightful crunch.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the side (not into the cream cheese) comes out clean.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serve these Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s sure to please any palate!