What could be better than starting the day with a sweet, fluffy muffin loaded with fresh, juicy strawberries and served with a strawberry cream cheese spread? Not much, I’d say!
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The Best Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
These strawberry muffins are a delightful treat, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a smooth and creamy cheese spread. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Notes on Ingredients
To make these delicious muffins, you’ll need some fresh strawberries, both for the batter and the cream cheese spread. The cream cheese should be softened to blend smoothly. Adding a touch of honey to the spread enhances its sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the strawberries. The orange zest in the muffin batter provides a subtle citrus note that complements the strawberries perfectly.
How to Make Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Spread: Combine ½ (8-ounce) package of softened cream cheese, ½ cup diced fresh strawberries, and 1 tablespoon of honey in a food processor. Pulse until smooth, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Prepare the Muffins:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray 12 muffin cups with cooking spray or line with paper muffin liners.
- Mix 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries and 1 tablespoon white sugar in a bowl. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, stir together 2 cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup white sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 lightly beaten eggs, ½ cup milk, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon grated orange zest. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Drain the strawberries and gently fold them into the batter. Divide the batter equally among the prepared muffin cups.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm or cooled with the strawberry cream cheese spread.
How to Serve Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
Serve these muffins warm or at room temperature with a generous dollop of strawberry cream cheese spread on the side. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or a midday snack.
How to Store Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cream cheese spread should be refrigerated and used within a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the muffins for up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
FAQs about Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the batter.
Can I substitute the honey in the cream cheese spread?
Absolutely! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.
How can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based milk in the muffin batter.
Can I add other fruits to the muffins?
Certainly! Blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches would be a lovely addition to these muffins.
The Best Strawberry Muffins with Cream Cheese Spread
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Spread:
- ½ 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup diced fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon honey
Muffins:
- 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, strawberries, and honey in a food processor; pulse until smooth. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Spray 12 muffin cups with cooking spray or line with paper muffin liners.
- Mix strawberries and 1 tablespoon sugar in a bowl. Set aside for 10 minutes.
- Stir flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Whisk eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and orange zest in a small bowl until well blended. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Drain strawberries and gently fold into the batter. Divide the batter equally among the prepared muffin cups.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Serve warm or cooled with the strawberry cream cheese spread.
Notes
Enjoy your baking and savor every bite of these delightful strawberry muffins with a creamy strawberry cheese spread!