Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins: A Deliciously Lightened Recipe
If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the creamy richness of cream cheese, look no further than these Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert! This version is lighter, making it easier to fit into your health-conscious lifestyle while still delivering on flavor.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (you can use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option)
- 1 cup low-fat sour cream (or Greek yogurt for added protein)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or substitute with applesauce for fewer calories)
- 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, if out of season)
- 1 tablespoon flour (for coating blueberries)
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Nutritional Information (per muffin):
- Calories: 180 (with adjustments for lower-fat ingredients)
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g
Weight Watchers Points
- SmartPoints: Approximately 5 points per muffin
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tray
- Mixing bowls
- Muffin liners or cooking spray
- Whisk and spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tray with muffin liners or grease the cups with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the muffins after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs and sugar. Whisk them together until well blended. Next, add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and vegetable oil, mixing until the batter is smooth.
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense muffins.
Step 3: Prepare the Blueberries
In a small bowl, toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This step helps to prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom during baking and ensures even distribution throughout the muffins.
Gently fold the blueberries into the muffin batter, taking care to mix until just combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy. This will create the delightful cream cheese center for your muffins.
Step 5: Assemble the Muffins
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about halfway. This allows room for the cream cheese mixture. Next, add a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture into the center of each muffin.
Top the cream cheese mixture with additional muffin batter until the cups are filled about three-quarters full. This ensures a perfect muffin crown when baked.
Step 6: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tray for 5-10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Ingredient Substitutions: To make these muffins even lighter, consider substituting half of the vegetable oil with applesauce. This not only reduces calories but also adds moisture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh blueberries when possible. If using frozen, don’t thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent color bleeding.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough muffins. Stir just until the flour is incorporated for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Add Zest: For a bright flavor, consider adding the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter.
- Portion Control: Use a cookie scoop to evenly portion out the batter and cream cheese mixture, ensuring uniform muffin sizes.
Nutritional Benefits
These Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins are not just delicious but also pack a nutritional punch. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, making them a fantastic addition to your diet. By using reduced-fat cream cheese and substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream, you’ll enjoy a satisfying treat without the guilt.
Conclusion
These Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins are a delightful way to start your day or enjoy a midday snack. With their perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and customizable, you can enjoy these muffins without compromising your health goals. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to this wholesome and delicious recipe! Enjoy! 🫐🥯