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Caramelized Apple Cheesecake Muffins with a Creamy Center

These delightful muffins combine the sweetness of caramelized apples with a luscious cheesecake center, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Apples
  • 2 pieces apples, peeled and finely diced
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
For the Cheesecake Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Muffin Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar for the muffin batter
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract for the muffin batter
For the Topping
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon for the topping

Method
 

Prepare the Caramelized Apples
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside to cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer and beat until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
Mix the Muffin Batter
  1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, eggs, plain yogurt, and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Assemble the Muffins
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. Fill each muffin liner halfway with batter. Dollop a spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center of each, followed by a layer of caramelized apples. Top off with remaining muffin batter if necessary.
Add Toppings
  1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle generously over each muffin.
Bake
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin comes out clean (not counting the creamy center). Allow to cool slightly in the tin before serving.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap the cream cheese with a vegan or dairy-free alternative. Avoid overbaking and check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. For the fluffiest muffins, mix the batter until just combined.