Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 26 min
Total time: 46 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened; 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups (200 g) fresh or frozen cranberries, roughly chopped; 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour (for streusel); ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed (for streusel); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for streusel); ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted (for streusel)

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: August 12, 2025

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Introduction to Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Welcome to my kitchen, where I never shy away from a delicious adventure! Today, I’m sharing a recipe for Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins that’s sure to brighten your day. These muffins strike the perfect balance between moist sweetness and creamy goodness, making them an ideal treat for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings. Whether you need a quick solution for breakfast or a delightful snack for the kids, this recipe hits the spot. Trust me, everyone will love them— and you might just end up with a new favorite in your baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Let me tell you, these Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins are a game-changer. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of days. Picture this: a fluffy muffin bursting with tart cranberries and a creamy surprise center. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors that your loved ones will adore. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these scrumptious Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: The foundation for a rich flavor, helping to create a moist texture.
Cream cheese: This adds that lovely, creamy filling that makes every muffin a delightful surprise.
Granulated sugar: The sweetener that balances the tanginess of the cranberries for a perfect harmony of flavors.
Large eggs: They help bind everything together, giving structure to your muffins.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to the batter.
All-purpose flour: The base of the muffin that provides the necessary gluten to hold it together. Consider whole wheat flour for extra fiber!
Baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your muffins rise and become fluffy while they bake.
Kosher salt: A touch of salt boosts the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these little gems add a pop of tartness that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese.
Streusel ingredients: For a crunchy topping, you’ll need additional flour, light brown sugar, and melted butter. This adds texture and crunch!

I’ve found that using fresh cranberries during their season takes these muffins to the next level. However, if you can’t find them, frozen ones work just fine. For exact measurements, scroll to the bottom of the article where I’ve got you covered with a handy, printable list!

How to Make Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins. I’ll walk you through each step, sharing a few tips along the way to ensure your muffins are nothing short of amazing. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tins

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it helps the muffins rise evenly, creating that fluffy texture we all love. Line your muffin tins with liners. This makes for easier removal and cleanup. You’ll be ready to go when your oven is hot and those pans are lined up.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

Next, grab your mixer and blend the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese together. Aim for a smooth consistency, which usually takes 2-3 minutes. This step is vital because it helps to create a light and fluffy batter, setting the foundation for the perfect muffin texture.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Eggs

Now, gradually add in the granulated sugar and mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. It should take about another 3 minutes. One at a time, add in the large eggs, mixing well after each addition. This step incorporates air into the batter, making those muffins rise beautifully!

Step 4: Mix in Vanilla Extract

Don’t forget the magic touch! Add in the vanilla extract and mix it until fully combined. This simple yet powerful addition enhances the flavor, giving your muffins that warm, inviting aroma. Trust me; it makes a world of difference.

Step 5: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Mixing your dry ingredients together before adding to the wet ingredients helps distribute the leavening agent evenly. This is key for a good rise, ensuring each muffin is fluffy from the first bite to the last!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be gentle while folding in the chopped cranberries; we don’t want to break them apart. This preserves the delightful bursts of tartness in every muffin.

Step 7: Make the Streusel Topping

For the crunchy streusel topping, mix together some flour, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Then, add the melted butter and mix with a fork. You want a crumbly texture that creates a yummy layer of crunch on top of those moist muffins, adding another exciting element to your bites.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Tins and Add Topping

Fill each muffin tin all the way to the top with your delightful batter. Then, sprinkle about a tablespoon of that delicious streusel topping on each muffin. Filling the tins generously helps achieve that perfect bakery-style muffin dome we all crave!

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Your oven is ready, your batter is prepped—it’s time to bake! Put the muffin tins in the preheated oven and bake for 24-26 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re done!

Step 10: Cooling the Muffins

Once they’re done baking, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin for about 5-10 minutes. This makes them easier to handle. Then transfer them to a wire rack. Allowing them to cool prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy and helps maintain that delightful texture.

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your muffins light and fluffy.
Use a cookie scoop to measure out the batter for even muffins.
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
For added flair, sprinkle some cinnamon on top of the streusel!

Equipment Needed for Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Stand mixer: A must-have for creaming ingredients, but a hand mixer works too.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key!
Muffin tins: Standard or silicone tins fit the bill for perfect muffins.
Mixing bowls: Have a few in varying sizes for mixing.
Cooling rack: Essential for cooling muffins evenly.

Variations of Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in each bite.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan Version: Swap out eggs for flaxseed meal and use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
Spiced Muffins: Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy flavor during the fall season.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Pair with Coffee: These muffins are delightful alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Add Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries for added freshness.
Top with Whipped Cream: For a special treat, a dollop of whipped cream can elevate these muffins.
Presentation: Serve them on a cute cake stand for a lovely display at brunch.

FAQs about Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Got questions about these delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that I’ve come across, along with my answers to help you on your baking journey.

Can I use frozen cranberries in the muffins?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to chop them a bit before adding to the batter. They’ll add that delicious tartness you love!

How do I store leftover muffins?
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer. They make a quick snack any time!

What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can try using ricotta or mascarpone. While the flavor might vary a little, they’ll still add a creamy texture to your muffins!

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! These Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins are perfect for meal prep. Make a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week for breakfast or snacks!

How do I ensure my muffins are fluffy?
Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. Also, don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour. This keeps those lovely muffins light and airy!

Final Thoughts

Crafting these delightful Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories in your kitchen. The combination of tart cranberries and creamy cheese nestled in a fluffy muffin is simply irresistible. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save a few for a busy morning, you’re sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces. These muffins are perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to a sweet afternoon treat. Embrace the joy of baking and the happiness these muffins can bring—your loved ones will thank you!