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

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.

Save

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

Save

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.