Simple Sweet Lemon Zest

Moist, fluffy muffins bursting with bright lemon flavor and a sweet, tender crumb perfect for a sunny brunch or an afternoon treat.

These muffins quickly became a favorite in my family, perfect for weekend breakfasts and snacks.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour: Dry ingredient
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar: Dry ingredient
• 2 tsp baking powder: Dry ingredient
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Dry ingredient
• 1/4 tsp salt: Dry ingredient
• 2 large eggs: Wet ingredient
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk: Wet ingredient
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled: Wet ingredient
• 2 tbsp freshly grated lemon zest (about 2 medium lemons): Wet ingredient
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice: Wet ingredient
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Wet ingredient
• 2 tbsp coarse or sparkling sugar: Optional topping

Instructions

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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Step 1 Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C):

Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter.

Step 2 Mix dry ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together the flour sugar baking powder baking soda and salt.

Step 3 Mix wet ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk the eggs milk melted butter lemon zest lemon juice and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4 Combine wet and dry:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold together with a spatula until just combined do not overmix.

Step 5 Prepare muffin cups:

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups filling each about 23 full. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 6 Bake:

Bake for 16 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.

Step 7 Cool muffins:

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

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These muffins have brought my family together for many brunches and have become a staple for our weekend treats.

Required Tools

12-cup muffin tin Mixing bowls Whisk Spatula Measuring cups and spoons Zester or fine grater

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs Milk (dairy) Wheat (gluten) Butter Verify labels for potential cross-contamination if using packaged ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Calories 180 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 26 g Protein 3 g per muffin

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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Enjoy these delightful lemon zest muffins anytime you want a refreshing sweet treat.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ How do I achieve a fluffy texture?

Use fresh baking powder and baking soda, avoid overmixing the batter, and fold ingredients gently to keep air bubbles intact.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for a richer flavor?

Replacing half the milk with Greek yogurt adds tang and richness without altering the batter's consistency.

→ What is the best way to enhance lemon flavor?

Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of lemon extract or increase freshly grated lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus note.

→ How should these muffins be stored?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze for extended freshness.

→ What contributes to the muffins' golden tops?

A light sprinkle of coarse or sparkling sugar before baking helps create a subtle crunch and golden finish.