Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

These Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect blend of soft texture and creamy goodness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With their rich red color and luscious cream cheese swirl, these muffins will impress your guests at holiday parties or simply satisfy a sweet craving. Their delightful crumb topping adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, ensuring every bite is a joy. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as snacks, these muffins are sure to become a favorite year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and cream cheese creates a deliciously rich taste that’s unique to red velvet.
• Festive Appeal: Their vibrant color makes them perfect for celebrations like Christmas and Valentine’s Day.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these muffins come together quickly, making baking fun and simple.
• Moist Texture: The use of buttermilk and oil ensures that each muffin remains soft and fluffy.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast or dessert; they fit perfectly into any meal plan or occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools in your kitchen can simplify the baking process and help achieve the best results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Non-Stick 12-Cup Regular Muffin Pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Non-Stick Muffin Pan: Ensures easy release of the muffins without sticking, which is crucial for maintaining their shape.
• Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients, especially for achieving a smooth cream cheese mixture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking; these tools help ensure consistency in your ingredients.

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. Prepare your non-stick muffin pan by spraying it very well with floured cooking spray or greasing it with butter and flour; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine:
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Using two forks or a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until you achieve coarse crumbs. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another medium bowl, mix together:
* 4 ounces softened cream cheese
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Beat with a handheld electric mixer until smooth. Alternatively, whisk by hand until fully combined. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients for Muffins

In a large bowl, add:
* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt

Whisk together until combined and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
* 1/3 cup buttermilk
* 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
* 2 teaspoons red food coloring

Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Stir just until moistened; it’s okay if some lumps remain—do not overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Cream Cheese Mixture

Gently fold the prepared cream cheese mixture into the muffin batter. Be careful not to overmix; you want some streaks of cream cheese to remain visible.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Pan

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

Step 9: Add Crumb Topping

Sprinkle each muffin generously with crumb topping prepared earlier.

Step 10: Bake Muffins

Bake in preheated oven for about 17 to 19 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with few moist crumbs but no raw batter.

Step 11: Cool & Store

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store airtight at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for up to four months.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are perfect for various occasions, from brunch gatherings to cozy afternoon snacks. Their vibrant color and rich flavor make them a delightful treat that pairs well with different accompaniments.

With Coffee or Tea

• Coffee – The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the muffins, making it a classic pairing.
• Tea – A light, fruity tea can enhance the muffins’ flavor profile, providing a refreshing contrast.

For Breakfast

• Fresh Fruits – Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas for added freshness and nutrition.
• Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess and balance the sweetness.

As a Dessert

• Ice Cream – Top warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Whipped Cream – A light swirl of whipped cream adds elegance and enhances the muffin’s texture.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

To achieve the best results with your Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature helps create a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined to keep the muffins fluffy and tender.
• Measure flour accurately – Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense muffins; too much flour can ruin the texture.
• Cool before serving – Letting muffins cool ensures they hold their shape and flavor is enhanced.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variety.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins can be elevated with some delightful side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider when serving them.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Cheese Platter – Pair with mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a savory contrast.
3. Granola Parfait – Layer granola and yogurt for a crunchy side that complements the soft muffins.
4. Savory Quiche – A slice of quiche offers a satisfying contrast in flavors and textures.
5. Smoothie Bowl – A berry smoothie bowl provides a refreshing side that’s visually appealing.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Toast – Simple yet delicious, this sweet toast pairs beautifully with the muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect muffins.

• Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and dense muffins. Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before use.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until combined and leave some lumps for a light texture.
• Ignoring Measuring Techniques: Improperly measuring flour can result in dry muffins. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Filling Muffin Cups Too Full: Overfilling can cause muffins to overflow as they bake. Fill each cup about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
• Not Allowing Muffins to Cool: Cutting into warm muffins can result in a messy presentation. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they are completely cool before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 4 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each muffin for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins special?

These muffins are moist and fluffy, with a rich red color and delicious cream cheese swirls that enhance their flavor profile.

Can I customize Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor. Experiment with different toppings too!

How long do these muffins last after baking?

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to 4 months when frozen.

Are Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins suitable for holidays?

Yes! Their vibrant color and festive taste make them perfect for celebrations like Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Muffins are not only visually stunning but also incredibly tasty. Their soft texture combined with the creamy filling creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings—these muffins are sure to delight everyone who tries them!