Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins
Delightful muffins that perfectly balance sweetness and tanginess, featuring a rich cream cheese filling and vibrant red color.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour The base that will provide the perfect structure.
- 1 cup granulated sugar For that sweet touch that contrasts beautifully with the tangy cream cheese filling.
- 1 tsp baking soda Essential for that perfect rise, giving the muffins a fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder Adds additional leavening power to ensure your muffins are light and airy.
- 0.5 tsp salt A crucial element to enhance the overall flavors.
- 1 tsp cocoa powder For that hint of chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet.
- 0.5 cups vegetable oil Ensures a moist texture throughout the muffin.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together for a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup buttermilk Adds tenderness and a slight tang that characterizes red velvet.
- 2 tbsp red food coloring Gives the muffins their iconic color.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the sweet aroma and flavor profile.
Cream Cheese Filling
- 0.5 cups cream cheese, softened The star ingredient, adding rich creaminess.
- 0.25 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture for an indulgent filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract To flavor the cream cheese filling delightfully.
Crumb Topping
- 0.5 cups cold butter For the crumb topping, adding a nice crunch.
- 0.5 cups all-purpose flour To make up the crumb topping mixture.
- 0.25 cups brown sugar Introduces a deeper, richer sweetness to the topping.
- 0.25 tsp cinnamon Optional for those who enjoy a touch of warmth in their treats.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, egg, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Mixing
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
- Fill each muffin liner halfway with the red velvet batter and add a spoonful of the cream cheese filling.
- Top with more batter until the liners are about ¾ full.
- For the crumb topping, mix the cold butter, flour, brown sugar, and optional cinnamon with your fingertips until coarse crumbs form.
- Sprinkle this topping generously over each muffin.
Baking
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the muffins in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. Measure flour using the spoon and level method. Feel free to add mini chocolate chips for extra flavor or adjust cream cheese and powdered sugar for a richer filling.