Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins

Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins are soft, fluffy muffins studded with tart cranberries and pockets of creamy, tangy cream cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a holiday treat, these muffins strike the ideal balance between sweet and tart — and they’re so easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy cranberries add a bright, tangy flavor.
• Cream cheese pockets make every bite rich and creamy.
• Quick and easy — ready in under an hour.
• Great way to use fresh or frozen cranberries.
• Perfect for holiday breakfasts or cozy weekends.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience.
• One-bowl recipe with simple ingredients.
• Moist and tender crumb every time.
• Delicious plain or topped with a drizzle of glaze.
• Always a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (if frozen, do not thaw)

For the cream cheese filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or grease well.
2. In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, ¾ cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Gently fold in cranberries.
6. Spoon a tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup. Add about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture, then top with remaining batter, dividing evenly. Swirl tops lightly with a toothpick if desired.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. If desired, drizzle with a simple glaze made by whisking powdered sugar and milk together.

Servings and timing

Makes about 12 muffins. Prep time: 15 minutes; Bake time: 20–25 minutes; Total time: 40 minutes.

Variations

• Add orange zest for a cranberry-orange twist.
• Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a crunchy finish.
• Use blueberries instead of cranberries for a milder flavor.
• Stir chopped nuts into the batter for extra texture.
• Make mini muffins — adjust baking time to 12–15 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap muffins tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes! Add them straight from the freezer — no need to thaw.

Do I have to swirl the cream cheese?

No — you can leave it as a pocket in the middle or swirl it on top for a pretty finish.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor, but low-fat will work.

Why are my muffins dense?

Be sure not to overmix the batter — stir until just combined.

Can I add nuts?

Yes! Pecans or walnuts add great texture.

How do I know when they’re done?

A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely — they’re freezer-friendly and great for meal prep.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

What can I use instead of cranberries?

Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries work well too.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Store in the fridge if keeping for more than 2 days because of the cream cheese.

Conclusion

Cranberry Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and creamy in every bite. They’re simple, festive, and delicious for any morning or holiday brunch. Make a batch and enjoy a bakery-style treat fresh from your own kitchen!

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