Chai-Spiced Cheesecake Muffins

• all-purpose flour1 ¾ cup
• cinnamon2 teaspoon
• ground ginger½ teaspoon
• ground cardamom½ teaspoon
• nutmeg½ teaspoon
• baking soda1 teaspoon
• salt½ teaspoon
• applesauce2 cup
• brown sugar1 ¼ cup
• large egg2
• vanilla extract1 teaspoon
• vegetable oil½ cup
• cream cheese8 ounce
• granulated sugar¼ cup
• vanilla extract1 teaspoon
• nonstick cooking spray0

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375˚F (190˚C).

2. 2

   Make the muffin batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt with a fork.

3. 3

   In a separate large bowl, combine the applesauce, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and vegetable oil.

4. 4

   Mix with a fork, then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until the batter is thick and smooth.

5. 5

   Make the cheesecake filling: In a medium bowl, use a fork to mix together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy and smooth.

6. 6

   Grease a 2 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.

7. 7

   Scoop about ¼ cup (30 g) of muffin batter into each cup.

8. 8

   Add a teaspoon of cheesecake filling to the center of each cup.

9. 9

   Use a toothpick to swirl the cheesecake into the batter.

10. 10

    Bake for 18 minutes, or until the muffins are springy and lightly browned around the edges.

11. 11

    Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

12. 12

    Enjoy!