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To make lemon cream cheese muffins, you need simple ingredients. You will need 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, which forms the base. Next, use ½ cup of granulated sugar for sweetness. You will also need 2 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of baking soda to help the muffins rise. Add ½ teaspoon of salt to balance the flavors. Don’t forget 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for that bright lemon taste. The creaminess comes from ½ cup of softened cream cheese. For moisture, you need ⅓ cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, and ½ cup of sour cream. Lastly, use 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. You can dust the tops with 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar, if you like.

Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins

Indulge in the zesty delight of Lemon Cream Cheese Muffins! This easy-to-follow recipe combines tangy lemon and creamy richness for a scrumptious treat perfect for any occasion. Discover the essential ingredients, simple baking steps, and fun variations to elevate your muffins. Whether for brunch or a sweet snack, these muffins are sure to impress. Click to explore the full recipe and start baking your lemony goodness today!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon lemon zest

½ cup cream cheese, softened

⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

½ cup sour cream

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest until well combined.

      In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the melted butter, eggs, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

        Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

          Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup about ¾ full.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Once cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | Makes 12 muffins

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the muffins on a decorative cake stand, garnished with lemon slices and a sprig of mint for a fresh look that highlights the flavor profile. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!