If you’re a fan of soft, gooey baked treats packed with warm cinnamon flavor and a creamy surprise inside, then Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are about to become your new obsession. These muffins are ultra-moist and tender, swirled with sweet cinnamon sugar and filled with a rich cream cheese center that melts in every bite. Think of them as a cross between a cinnamon roll and a cheesecake—wrapped up in muffin form!
They’re the perfect breakfast indulgence, afternoon snack, or sweet treat for brunches and holidays. Best of all, they’re easy to make with pantry staples, and they’ll fill your kitchen with the cozy aroma of cinnamon while baking.
Ingredients Notes
To get that gooey texture and warm spice, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour – The base of your muffin batter, offering a soft and fluffy structure.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that help your muffins rise perfectly.
- Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm, spicy flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a rich molasses depth and complements the cinnamon.
- Eggs – For structure and moisture.
- Buttermilk – Makes the muffins extra soft and tender.
- Butter – Adds richness and a beautiful crumb.
- Cream Cheese – Softened and slightly sweetened, used as a filling.
- Vanilla Extract & Salt – Enhance the overall flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 18–20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 265 kcal per muffin | Servings: 12 muffins
How to Make Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1–2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth.
- Chill in the fridge while you make the muffin batter.
Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with buttermilk, until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Muffins
- Spoon a tablespoon of muffin batter into each liner.
- Add about a teaspoon of cream cheese filling to the center.
- Cover with another spoonful of batter, sealing the cream cheese in the middle.
- Optional: sprinkle the tops with cinnamon sugar for an extra crunch.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (avoid the cream cheese center).
- Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
🧁 Chill the Filling First – Cold cream cheese is easier to stuff and helps prevent it from leaking out during baking.
🧁 Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until everything is combined to avoid dense muffins.
🧁 Use Room Temp Ingredients (Except Cream Cheese) – Helps everything incorporate more smoothly.
🧁 Don’t Overfill Liners – Fill them about ¾ full for even baking and domed tops.
🧁 Let Them Rest Before Eating – Give them 10–15 minutes after baking so the cream cheese sets slightly and won’t burn your mouth.
Why You’ll Love These Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins
💛 Gooey Cream Cheese Center – It’s like a bite of cheesecake hidden in every muffin.
💛 Warm Cinnamon Swirl – Classic comfort flavor that makes your kitchen smell heavenly.
💛 Perfect Texture – Moist and fluffy muffins with a rich, decadent middle.
💛 Make-Ahead Friendly – These stay moist for days and freeze well.
💛 Crowd-Pleaser – Great for brunches, holiday mornings, or bake sales.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a balanced breakfast.
- Pair with a cinnamon latte or chai tea for a cozy flavor combo.
- Add a dusting of powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness.
Storing and Freezing
Storage:
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight or reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
FAQ
Can I make these muffins without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I use a muffin mix instead of making from scratch?
Absolutely! Use your favorite cinnamon or spice muffin mix and add the cream cheese filling as directed.
What if my cream cheese leaks out while baking?
That’s okay! A little leakage is normal and just adds to the gooey charm. You can also try sealing the filling better with more batter on top.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or raisins?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or golden raisins are great additions to the batter.
How do I keep the muffins moist?
Store them properly in an airtight container and avoid overbaking. The cream cheese filling also helps keep them tender.
Conclusion
Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins are everything you love about comfort baking in one portable package. With their fluffy texture, surprise cheesecake-like center, and warm cinnamon spice, they’re the kind of treat that disappears fast—so be sure to make a double batch! Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a cozy get-together, or simply to satisfy a craving, these muffins will become a staple in your recipe box.
