Save to Pinterest A playful fusion of sweet and savory: fluffy muffins swirled with gooey cheese and dusted in cinnamon sugar, inspired by classic churros.
I first baked these to impress my friends at a game night, and their reaction to the gooey cheese center mixed with cinnamon sugar was pure delight. The sweet-savory blend is always a hit for gatherings or cozy evenings in.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g)
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 2 tsp
- Large eggs: 2
- Whole milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115 g), melted
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
- Cream cheese: 1/2 cup (55 g), softened
- Granulated sugar (topping): 1/4 cup (50 g)
- Ground cinnamon (topping): 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter (topping): 2 tbsp (30 g), melted
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease thoroughly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet & Dry:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
- Prepare Cheese Filling:
- In a small bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and softened cream cheese.
- Layer Muffins:
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Add 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture to the center of each. Top with remaining batter, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the edge (not the center with cheese) comes out clean.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar:
- While muffins are baking, mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon for the topping.
- Finish Muffins:
- Remove muffins from oven and let cool for 5 minutes, then brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve:
- Serve warm for the best cheesy churro experience.
Save to Pinterest One weekend, our family gathered around the kitchen island, sneaking bits of cinnamon sugar and cheese as we baked these muffins together. Sharing warm, fresh muffins straight from the oven felt wonderfully comforting.
Required Tools
12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, pastry brush (for topping).
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 255 calories, 11 g total fat, 33 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein.
Notes
For more crunch, fold 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans into the batter. Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar for a tangier flavor. Try dipping with dulce de leche or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these muffins fresh from the oven for the ultimate cheesy churro chaos. It is a whimsical treat perfect for sharing.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Yes, sharp cheddar creates a tangier taste, while mild cheeses soften the savory character of the muffins.
- → How should I store leftover muffins?
Cool completely, then keep in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Is it necessary to add cinnamon sugar topping?
The cinnamon sugar topping delivers classic churro flavor, but you can omit or adjust to suit personal preference.
- → Can I make this with gluten-free flour?
Gluten-free all-purpose blends can be substituted, though texture may vary; check baking powder for gluten-free labeling.
- → What mix-ins work well with this muffin?
Mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans add texture and extra richness to each bite.
- → Can these muffins be frozen?
Yes, individually wrap and freeze muffins for up to three months; reheat gently before serving.