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To achieve a rich and vibrant flavor in your Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, the incorporation of eggs and flavoring is crucial. Start by using room temperature eggs; this allows for better emulsification when combined with other wet ingredients. As you whisk the eggs, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract alongside the lemon juice and zest. This combination will enhance the muffins’ overall flavor profile, balancing the tartness of the lemon with a hint of sweetness.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Bring a burst of sunshine to your kitchen with these delightful Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch, these muffins combine the tangy flavor of fresh lemons with the nutty crunch of poppy seeds for a truly harmonious taste. Using high-quality ingredients will elevate your bake, ensuring each bite is light, fluffy, and packed with flavor. Enjoy them plain or topped with a simple glaze for an irresistible treat that will impress at any gathering.

Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup granulated sugar

Zest of 2 lemons

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice added)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Optional: 1/4 cup powdered sugar for glaze

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

        Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and vanilla extract until evenly combined.

          Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Gradually add this mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until well combined.

            Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it's okay if there are a few lumps.

              Fill Muffin Tins: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

                Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

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

                    Optional Glaze: If desired, mix powdered sugar with a few teaspoons of lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle over cooled muffins for added sweetness and tang.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Makes 12 muffins