Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

Layer zucchini batter and cream cheese filling together to make Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins. These super soft and moist muffins are deliciously spiced with cinnamon and taste wonderful with a crunchy coarse sugar topping. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert, they are sure to impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up these delightful muffins in no time.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of zucchini and cream cheese creates a moist texture that’s bursting with flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat for a gathering, these muffins fit right in.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spices or add nuts for extra crunch!
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

You’ll need a few essential tools to prepare your cream cheese zucchini muffins effectively. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Handheld or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Ensures even baking and helps maintain shape while providing easy removal of the muffins.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to fluffy muffins.

Ingredients

Layer zucchini batter and cream cheese filling together to make cream cheese zucchini muffins. These super soft and moist muffins are deliciously spiced with cinnamon and taste wonderful with a crunchy coarse sugar topping.

For the Muffins

• 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) canola or vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/4 cups (150g) shredded zucchini (no need to blot)
• optional: coarse sugar for topping

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 5 ounces (142g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 Tablespoons (36g) granulated sugar

How to Make Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line with cupcake liners. This recipe yields about 10 muffins.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Stir in the shredded zucchini.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients:
1. Gently whisk or stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.

Step 5: Make Cream Cheese Filling

Using a handheld or stand mixer:
1. Beat the cream cheese in a medium bowl on medium-high speed until smooth.
2. Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and sugar until fully combined.

Step 6: Assemble Muffins

In each muffin cup:
1. Spoon 1 heaping tablespoon of zucchini muffin batter.
2. Layer with 1 tablespoon of cream cheese filling.
3. Top with another heaping tablespoon of muffin batter until filled to the top. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 425°F (218°C) for 5 minutes:
1. Without opening the oven door, reduce heat to 350°F (177°C).
2. Continue baking for another 15–17 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving:
* Cover leftover muffins tightly; store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Enjoy making these delightful cream cheese zucchini muffins, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

Cream cheese zucchini muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Bananas – The natural sweetness of bananas complements the muffins perfectly.
• Berries – Strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the cream cheese filling.

Enjoy with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – A warm cup of coffee brings out the spices in the muffins and makes for a cozy pairing.
• Herbal Tea – For a lighter option, herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint provide a soothing contrast.

Add a Dollop of Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt – A spoonful of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a touch of tanginess that enhances the overall taste.
• Flavored Yogurt – Choose fruit-flavored yogurt to introduce new flavors that mix well with zucchini muffins.

Serve as Dessert

• With Ice Cream – Warm muffins topped with vanilla ice cream create an indulgent dessert experience.
• Drizzle of Honey – A light drizzle of honey on top adds extra sweetness and moisture.

How to Perfect Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

Making perfect cream cheese zucchini muffins requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out soft and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Zucchini – Freshly shredded zucchini adds moisture and flavor. Avoid using pre-packaged shredded varieties as they may lack freshness.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to keep the muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on your muffins; baking time may vary based on your oven. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add more spices like ginger or cloves for additional flavor complexity.
• Cool Before Storing – Allow muffins to cool completely before storing them to maintain their soft texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

Cream cheese zucchini muffins can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and brightness that pairs well with the rich muffin.
2. Nut Mix – A handful of mixed nuts offers crunch and protein, making for a satisfying snack alongside the muffins.
3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like mozzarella or gouda which pair nicely without overpowering the muffin’s flavors.
4. Granola Parfait – Layer yogurt and granola with fresh fruit for a nutritious breakfast option that balances sweetness.
5. Smoothie Bowl – Serve a smoothie bowl topped with granola and seeds for added texture and health benefits.
6. Veggie Sticks with Hummus – Carrot and celery sticks dipped in hummus offer crunchiness and a savory contrast to sweet muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few tips to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly.

• Using too much flour: Adding too much flour can lead to dry muffins. Always spoon and level the flour when measuring to avoid this mistake.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the muffins tough. Mix only until just combined for a soft and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into muffins right after baking can result in a gummy texture. Allow them to cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan before serving.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold ingredients affect how well they mix together. Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting.
• Neglecting to check doneness: Baking times can vary; always check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• If you want them to last longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label the bag with the date.

Reheating Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each muffin on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins that may help you perfect your baking experience.

Can I substitute other vegetables for zucchini?

You can try using grated carrots or even sweet potatoes as substitutes. Just ensure they are finely shredded similar to zucchini.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of cream cheese for a lighter version of these muffins without losing creaminess.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or semi-sweet chocolate chips can be added into the batter for extra flavor and texture.

How long do these muffins last?

Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins will stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or you can refrigerate them for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Cream Cheese Zucchini Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or different spices. With their soft texture and rich flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Try making them today and enjoy every bite!