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To make Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins, you will need simple ingredients. This recipe blends fresh lemon with creamy cheese. The result is a light and zesty muffin that’s perfect for breakfast or snacks. Here’s what you’ll need for the full recipe: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup milk - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Optional: powdered sugar for dusting Each ingredient plays a role. The flour gives structure, while the cream cheese adds richness. The lemon zest and juice give a bright flavor. If you don't have an ingredient, here are some easy swaps: - Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. - Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. - Cream Cheese: Try Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter option. - Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free choice. - Milk: Almond milk or oat milk works well for a non-dairy version. Experiment with these substitutes to fit your taste or dietary needs. Each option can change the flavor or texture slightly, but they will still make a delicious muffin. Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup milk - Zest of 1 lemon - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Optional: powdered sugar for dusting Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it. This step helps the muffins release easily after baking. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them well. Next, take another bowl. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until they are smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t worry if there are lumps; this is okay! Use a scoop or a large spoon to fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If there is batter on the toothpick, bake them a few more minutes. Once they are done, take the tin out of the oven. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. This helps them cool evenly. If you like, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a sweet touch! To check for doneness, use a toothpick or a cake tester. Insert it into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your muffins are ready. If it has wet batter, they need more time. Keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so checking early can help. If they are browning too fast, cover them loosely with foil. This prevents burning while they finish baking. Enjoy the sweet, tangy smell of these Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins as they bake! When making Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing makes muffins dense and tough. Also, don’t skip the cream cheese. It adds a rich, moist texture. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold cream cheese or eggs may lead to lumps. Lastly, always measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can dry out your muffins. To get the perfect texture, focus on mixing. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently. You want some lumps; they help create a light muffin. Let the batter rest for a few minutes before baking. This gives the flour time to hydrate. Use a scoop to fill muffin cups. This ensures even baking and nice shapes. You can boost the flavor of your muffins easily. Try adding poppy seeds for a nice crunch. Blueberries or raspberries can also add sweetness. For a zing, include a bit of grated ginger. If you like a richer taste, swap part of the butter for coconut oil. For more brightness, add more lemon zest or juice. These changes can make your muffins unique and exciting! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can make these muffins gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for one that works well in baking. Most blends include rice flour and starches. This change keeps the muffins light and fluffy. Always check the label for other ingredients. Want to make your muffins special? You can add fun extras. Consider adding blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch. You can also mix in white chocolate chips for a sweet touch. Just keep the total add-ins to 1 cup to maintain texture. Feeling adventurous? You can switch up the citrus. Lime gives a zesty kick. Use the same amount of lime juice and zest as lemon. Orange adds sweetness and a bright flavor. Again, keep the same amounts for juice and zest. These swaps keep your muffins exciting and fresh. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To enjoy your Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins longer, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and moist. Place a paper towel inside the container. It will absorb extra moisture. Store the muffins at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Freezing is a great way to save your muffins. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat your muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-10 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat each muffin for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy your warm, tasty treat! For the full recipe, check the section above. Yes, you can make these muffins dairy-free. Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese. Use coconut oil instead of butter. For milk, almond or oat milk works well. This way, you still get that creamy texture and lemon flavor. To check if the muffins are done, insert a toothpick into the center of one muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them. Baking takes about 18 to 20 minutes. Ovens can vary, so check early to avoid overbaking. Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins pair well with many treats. Try them with a cup of tea or coffee. They also taste great with fresh berries or a light fruit salad. A dollop of whipped cream can add extra fun. For an adult twist, serve with a splash of lemon-flavored liqueur. Enjoy these muffins at breakfast or as a snack. They are perfect for any time of the day! You learned how to make delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins. We covered key ingredients and tips for baking. I shared step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid. You found ways to store your muffins and even how to freeze them. Finally, we explored variations and answered some common questions. With these insights, you can bake muffins that are fluffy and full of flavor! Enjoy your baking journey!

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins

Indulge in the delightful taste of Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins! These mouthwatering muffins blend creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors in each fluffy bite. Perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack, they are easy to make with simple ingredients. Follow our step-by-step instructions to whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time. Click through to explore the recipe and bring a burst of lemony goodness into your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1/4 cup milk

Zest of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with non-stick spray.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

      In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

        Add the egg, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until fully incorporated.

          Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.

            Use a scoop or large spoon to fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

                Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins