Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Muffin Batter
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease thoroughly with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg, whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine and desirable for tender muffins.
Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until a thick, cohesive paste forms.
Assemble and Bake the Muffins
- Divide about two-thirds of the muffin batter evenly among the 12 prepared muffin cups.
- Drop small spoonfuls (about 1 teaspoon each) of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter in each cup.
- Top with the remaining muffin batter, distributing it evenly among the cups.
- Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter in each cup, being careful not to overmix or reach the bottom of the cup.
- Bake for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 17-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined and smooth.
- Add 2 tablespoons of milk (or cream), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and a pourable consistency is reached. If too thick, add more milk 1 teaspoon at a time until desired consistency.
Glaze and Serve
- Once the muffins are completely cool, drizzle generously with the cream cheese glaze.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Do not overmix the muffin batter; overmixing can lead to tough muffins. For an extra touch, warm the muffins slightly before glazing and serving. Store leftover glazed muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Unglazed muffins can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
