Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy brunches. These soft and fluffy muffins feature a delightful cream cheese swirl that ensures they remain moist and flavorful. With their vibrant color and charming crumb topping, they are sure to impress red velvet lovers year-round. Enjoy these muffins as a sweet snack or as a festive addition to your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Fluffy: The combination of buttermilk and oil ensures that each muffin is soft, light, and never dry.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: A rich cream cheese mixture adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender muffin base.
• Festive Appearance: The striking red hue makes these muffins visually appealing for celebrations like Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even novice bakers can whip these up without hassle.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat, these muffins fit any time of day.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins, gather the essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools will make your baking process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Non-Stick 12-Cup Regular Muffin Pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Handheld electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Non-Stick 12-Cup Regular Muffin Pan: Ensures easy release of muffins without sticking, making cleanup simpler.
• Mixing Bowls: Different sizes help keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Handheld Electric Mixer: Makes mixing easier and quicker, especially for cream cheese mixtures.

Ingredients

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (diced into cubes)

For the Cream Cheese Mixture

• 4 ounces brick-style cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Muffins

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons red liquid food coloring

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare your Non-Stick 12-Cup Regular Muffin Pan by spraying it well with floured cooking spray or greasing it with butter and dusting with flour. This helps prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
2. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Using two forks or a pastry cutter, cut in the diced butter until you achieve coarse crumbs. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another medium bowl, blend together:
1. 4 ounces softened cream cheese
2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Use a handheld electric mixer or whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients for Muffins

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 2 teaspoons baking powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Set this bowl aside after combining.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, add:
1. 1 large egg
2. 1/2 cup canola oil
3. 1/3 cup buttermilk
4. 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
5. 2 teaspoons red food coloring

Whisk until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients mixture and stir just until moistened; be cautious not to overmix as some lumps will remain.

Step 7: Fold in Cream Cheese Mixture

Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the muffin batter so that some streaks of cream cheese remain visible without overmixing.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Pan

Turn out the batter into your prepared muffin pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to accommodate the crumb topping and rising.

Step 9: Add Crumb Topping

Evenly sprinkle each muffin with the crumb topping prepared earlier.

Step 10: Bake

Bake your muffins for about 17 to 19 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 11: Cool

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

These delightful muffins can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or cozying up with a cup of coffee, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your red velvet cream cheese muffins.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these muffins alongside your favorite brew. The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.

As Dessert

• Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat. The combination is simply heavenly!

Breakfast Treat

• Pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a satisfying breakfast option. This adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present them on a decorative platter at holiday parties. Their vibrant color makes them a festive addition to any spread.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Drizzle or spread some cream cheese frosting on top for an extra layer of flavor and decadence. This makes them even more irresistible!

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

To ensure your red velvet cream cheese muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir just until combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy; it’s okay if some lumps remain.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
• Fill Muffin Cups Properly: Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full to allow room for rising without overflowing.
• Cool Before Storing: Allow muffins to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for additional flavor and texture variations.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their flavor profile and make your meal complete. Consider these tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s nutritious too.
3. Savory Egg Casserole: A fluffy egg dish can offer a savory counterpart that complements the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.
4. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like brie or cheddar, which provide rich flavors that go well with sweet treats.
5. Nut Butter Spread: Provide almond or peanut butter as a spread option; it pairs beautifully with the muffin’s soft texture.
6. Herbal Tea Selection: Offer a variety of herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, for a calming beverage choice alongside your muffins.

These pairings will elevate your muffin experience, making it even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins, some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven accurately before placing the muffins inside.
• Filling Muffin Cups Too Full: Overfilling can lead to messy overflow. Fill each cup about two-thirds full to allow for rising and crumb topping.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to too much flour. Use a spoon to fluff it up, then spoon it into your measuring cup for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 4 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes, ensuring they warm through without drying out.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on high for about 15-20 seconds; check and add more time if needed.
• Stovetop: Warm muffins in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins?

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are soft, fluffy muffins with a vibrant red color, swirled with a creamy cheese filling, perfect for any occasion.

How do I make my muffins extra moist?

Using buttermilk and oil instead of butter helps keep these muffins moist. Don’t overmix the batter either!

Can I customize my Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap the cream cheese with flavored varieties for different tastes.

How should I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, making them perfect for any celebration or everyday treat. Their versatility allows for numerous customization options, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite mix-ins. Try this recipe today and delight your friends and family!

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