Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Introduction

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that blends the unique flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy richness of cream cheese. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Their beautiful red color and rich taste make them a favorite among friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it is simple to make and requires just a few common ingredients. Second, the muffins are incredibly moist and flavorful. Finally, the marbled cream cheese filling adds a delicious surprise in every bite. Perfect for special occasions or just a cozy day at home, these muffins will impress everyone who tries them.

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins is easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have a batch of delicious muffins ready in no time.

Ingredients

1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar, divided
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons natural unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 teaspoons red liquid food coloring
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg, slightly beaten
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar (for crumb topping)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, cocoa powder, red food coloring, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth.
Gradually stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup sugar until smooth. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the muffin batter, creating a marbled effect.
Fill the prepared muffin cups about two-thirds full with the batter.
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup flour. Add the butter and cut it into the mixture until coarse crumbs form.
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over each muffin.
Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins are delicious warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, or for an extra treat, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Store Red Velvet 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. Simply wrap the muffins in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the muffins tough.
For even more flavor, add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before baking.

Variation

You can switch up this recipe by using different food coloring. For a fun twist, try using blue or green food coloring to make colorful muffins!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
A1: Yes, you can use milk with a little vinegar or lemon juice added as a substitute for buttermilk.

Q2: How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
A2: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

Q3: Can I add other flavors to these muffins?
A3: Yes! You can add vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the flavor of your muffins.