Strawberry Shortcake Muffins

Recently, I decided to adapt one of my favorite muffin recipes, Lemon Blueberry Muffins, to make it work with strawberry. I loved the results! The only problem is that the recipe only makes one dozen. This batch didn't last out the day!

Strawberry Shortcake Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons orange zest
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
1/2 cup whole milk

Filling
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup strawberry jam

Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 12 cup muffin tin with non-stick spray, or use cupcake liners. In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, blend the sugar and orange zest until well combined. Add in butter and blend until light and fluffy.  
 
Add eggs, one at a time,blending well. Add in vanilla, orange juice, and milk. Mix until combined. Add flour mixture and mix on low until just combined.

In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla.

Divide about half of the batter into the muffin cups. Top with a teaspoon each of the cream cheese mixture and the strawberry jam. Divide the remaining batter between the muffin cups, covering the filling. 

Bake at 350° for 23-25 minutes. Cool on a wire rack, but these are especially tasty served warm!