Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful treat that are perfect for any occasion. With their soft and fluffy texture, these muffins are made with buttermilk and oil, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful. The cream cheese swirled into the batter adds a rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the red velvet flavor. Ideal for holiday gatherings, from Christmas to Valentine’s Day, these muffins are sure to impress red velvet lovers year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and oil, these muffins are irresistibly soft.
• Creamy Cream Cheese Swirl: The addition of cream cheese elevates the flavor profile and keeps them from drying out.
• Festive Appeal: The striking red color makes them perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it great for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Snack: Enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Non-Stick 12-Cup Regular Muffin Pan
• Mixing Bowls (medium and large)
• Electric Mixer or Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Pastry Cutter or Two Forks

Why These Tools Matter

• Non-Stick Muffin Pan: Ensures easy removal of muffins without sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: Different sizes help keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements guarantee consistent results every time.

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 (I used McCormick)

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a non-stick muffin pan by spraying it with floured cooking spray or greasing it with butter and flour. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl:
1. Combine the sugar and flour.
2. Using two forks or a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until coarse crumbs form. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another medium bowl:
1. Beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth using an electric mixer or whisking by hand. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Add flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the egg, oil, buttermilk, cocoa powder, and red food coloring until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
2. Stir gently just until moistened; remember not to overmix—lumps are okay.

Step 7: Fold in Cream Cheese Mixture

Gently fold in the cream cheese mixture into the muffin batter until streaks remain visible.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Pan

Spoon batter into each cavity of the prepared muffin pan, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 9: Add Crumb Topping

Evenly sprinkle each muffin with the prepared crumb topping.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for about 17 to 19 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delightful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins fresh or store them airtight at room temperature for up to three days!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch or during a festive gathering, these muffins are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning experience. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.

As a Dessert

• Serve warm and topped with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option. The creaminess enhances the rich flavor of the muffins.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add color and brightness to your plate.

At Brunch Buffets

• Include these muffins on your brunch buffet spread alongside other pastries. Their vibrant color will make them stand out and attract guests.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present these muffins as festive treats during holiday parties. Their red hue makes them perfect for Christmas and Valentine’s Day celebrations.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Perfecting your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results every time you bake.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ingredients like eggs and cream cheese should be at room temperature for smooth mixing and better incorporation into the batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep your muffins fluffy and prevent them from becoming dense.
• Measure flour correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry muffins.
• Cool in the pan briefly – Allowing the muffins to cool in the pan helps them set while keeping their shape intact before transferring to a rack.
• Store properly – Keep your muffins airtight at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage without losing quality.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet flavor. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast that enhances your muffin experience.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide protein and richness, making for a satisfying breakfast combination.
4. Cheese Platter – Include assorted cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese, which pair excellently with the muffin’s flavors.
5. Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers health benefits while being visually appealing beside your muffins.
6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus – Crisp veggies served with hummus create a savory counterpart to satisfy different taste preferences.
7. Nut Mix – A simple nut mix brings crunch and healthy fats, making it an easy snack alongside your muffins.
8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These decadent treats can elevate any occasion while echoing the red velvet theme beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Batter Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and some lumps remain for a tender texture.
• Bold Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the rise and texture of your muffins. Always preheat your oven properly to 375°F before baking.
• Bold Skipping the Crumb Topping: The crumb topping adds flavor and texture. Don’t skip it! It enhances the overall taste and makes your muffins more festive.
• Bold Not Filling Muffin Cups Properly: Overfilling or underfilling muffin cups can lead to uneven baking. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full for optimal results.
• Bold Ignoring Cooling Time: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan is essential for setting their structure. Wait at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, keep them in the fridge for longer freshness.

Freezing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 4 months without losing quality.

Reheating Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place muffins on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Place one muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Bold Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm each muffin for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins?

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are soft, fluffy baked treats that feature red velvet flavor with rich cream cheese swirls, making them perfect for any occasion.

Can I use different food coloring?

Yes! You can use gel food coloring or natural alternatives like beet juice if you prefer a different color or want to avoid artificial dyes.

How do I customize my Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative!

How long do these muffins last?

These muffins stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Their fluffy texture and rich cream cheese swirls make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Plus, they can be customized with various mix-ins or toppings to suit your taste. Try making these delightful muffins today!