Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

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

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my family for weekend brunch gatherings and afternoon snacks.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

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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:

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

Step 3:

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

Step 4:

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

Step 5:

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups filling each about 2/3 full. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 6:

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

Step 7:

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

Blend smoothies, sauces, dips, and prep ingredients quickly for fast meals and everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Blend smoothies, sauces, dips, and prep ingredients quickly for fast meals and everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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Our family loves to enjoy these muffins fresh with a cup of tea on peaceful weekend mornings.

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 when using packaged ingredients.

Nutritional Information

Per muffin Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 26 g, Protein: 3 g

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

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These simple sweet lemon zest muffins bring sunshine to any day with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I enhance the lemon flavor?

Add a half teaspoon of lemon extract or increase the freshly grated lemon zest for a more vibrant citrus note.

→ Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?

Greek yogurt can replace half the milk to add moisture and tang. Butter can be swapped with oils, but it may affect texture.

→ What is the best way to avoid overmixing batter?

Fold wet and dry ingredients gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can result in denser muffins.

→ How should the muffins be stored to maintain freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer shelf life.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A muffin tin, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring tools, and a zester or fine grater are essential.