Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins Recipe

If you are searching for a treat that combines wholesome ingredients with unforgettable flavor, look no further than these Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins. Bursting with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries and the luscious richness of a dairy-free cream cheese filling, these muffins are a delightful way to brighten any morning or satisfy an afternoon craving. The combination of gluten-free oat and almond flours ensures a tender crumb, while the subtle hint of cinnamon adds warmth, making every bite feel cozy and special. Perfectly sweet, utterly moist, and thoughtfully crafted for those following plant-based and gluten-free diets, these muffins truly live up to their dreamy name.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, accessible, and each plays a crucial role in making these muffins absolutely scrumptious. Every item is chosen to create harmony in taste, texture, and color, giving your Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins that perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and that gorgeous strawberry pop.

• Unsweetened applesauce (3/4 cup): Adds natural moisture and sweetness while keeping the muffins tender and light.
• Maple syrup (1/2 cup): Provides a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the strawberries beautifully.
• Gluten-free oat flour (2 cups): Delivers a soft yet sturdy base and a mild, nutty flavor perfect for gluten-free baking.
• Dairy-free yogurt (1/3 cup): Contributes creaminess and helps achieve a wonderful crumb structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, fragrant touch.
• Almond flour (1 cup): Adds richness and a slight chewiness, along with healthy fats for moisture.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Essential for giving the muffins a light rise and fluffy texture.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Works with the acidity from the yogurt to lift the batter perfectly.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): Introduces a gentle warmth that elevates the fruit’s flavor.
• Freshly diced strawberries (1 cup): The star ingredient adding fresh bursts of juicy sweetness and lovely color.
• Dairy-free cream cheese (8 ounces): The base for the smooth, tangy cream filling that makes these muffins extra special.
• Arrowroot powder (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the cream cheese filling for that dreamy, creamy texture.
• Lakanto monk fruit sweetener or sugar (1 tbsp): Sweetens the filling just enough to balance tanginess without overpowering.

How to Make Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with parchment paper muffin cups to ensure your muffins bake evenly and are easy to remove. Proper preparation here promises flawless results!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, maple syrup, dairy-free yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir them until fully integrated, creating a silky-smooth base for your batter that’s bursting with natural sweetness and a little tang from the yogurt.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free oat flour, almond flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This step ensures your leavening agents and flours are evenly distributed, avoiding any lumps or uneven rising in your batter.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here — you want the batter tender, not tough. The moment the mixture appears blended, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 5: Fold in the Fresh Strawberries

Gently fold in the 1 cup of diced strawberries. This step is the heart of your Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins, infusing vibrant color and juicy bursts into every bite. Be delicate to avoid breaking down the fruit.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Using a food processor, blend the dairy-free cream cheese with arrowroot powder until smooth. Then add the monk fruit sweetener or sugar, pulsing a few more times to create a luscious, thick filling that’s the perfect contrast to the tender muffin batter.

Step 7: Assemble the Muffins

Fill each parchment-lined muffin cup about three-quarters full with the batter. Carefully spoon a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling directly into the center of each muffin cup. Cover the cream with a little more muffin batter until just about full to seal in that dreamy filling.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your muffin tin in the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the muffins turn a gorgeous golden brown. Trust your senses here: the aroma should be inviting, and a toothpick inserted near the edge should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This gentle cooling process helps them set perfectly. Once cooled, your Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins are ready to be enjoyed—warm, fragrant, and utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins

Garnishes

Adding a touch of fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of powdered coconut sugar on top amplifies the muffins’ visual appeal and flavor. A light drizzle of homemade vegan glaze made from maple syrup and lemon juice can also add a tangy-sweet finish.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte made with oat milk for a cozy breakfast. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit salads or a small bowl of coconut yogurt topped with nuts, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these muffins alongside a vegan cream cheese spread, letting guests add extra creaminess themselves. You can even slice one in half and toast it lightly to make a unique strawberry & cream muffin sandwich—perfect for a decadent snack or brunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them moist and fresh, storing in the fridge for 4 to 5 days works well—just bring to room temperature before serving for best taste.

Freezing

These Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

For warm muffins that taste freshly baked, reheat them in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but the oven crisp-up adds a lovely texture that is hard to beat.

FAQs

Are these muffins truly gluten-free?

Yes! We use gluten-free oat flour and almond flour exclusively to ensure that these Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins are safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I substitute blueberries for strawberries?

Absolutely. While fresh strawberries bring a lovely bright flavor, blueberries make for a delicious alternative that pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.

What if I don’t have arrowroot powder for the filling?

You can substitute with cornstarch or tapioca starch in equal amounts. These thickeners will help achieve the creamy texture desired for the filling.

Is it possible to make these muffins nut-free?

For a nut-free version, try swapping almond flour with an equal amount of additional oat flour or a safe seed flour, like sunflower seed flour, to keep the texture tender.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes, other liquid sweeteners such as agave nectar or brown rice syrup can be used, but maple syrup adds a unique deep flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you want a muffin that feels like a warm hug full of fresh fruit and creamy indulgence, these Vegan and Gluten-Free Strawberries & Cream Dream Muffins are a must-try. They are simple to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for anyone seeking a healthier yet satisfying treat. Whip up a batch and watch these beauties disappear fast—your mornings will never be the same!

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