Lemon Muffins

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There’s nothing quite like the bright, refreshing zing of lemon, especially when it comes in the form of deliciously fluffy muffins. These Lemon Muffins are a perfect way to welcome the day or to enjoy as a lovely snack with your afternoon tea. With a light texture and a burst of lemony flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into these delightful baked goods!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Lemon Muffins are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. The combination of Greek yogurt and citrus makes them moist and light, while the sweetness from the granulated sugar perfectly balances the tartness of the lemon. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Whether you’re preparing for breakfast, brunch, or a midday treat, these muffins deliver on flavor and texture every time.

Ingredients

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 3 medium eggs, at room temperature
• ½ cup (150g) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (200g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

How To Make Lemon Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and reach the perfect fluffy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin

Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray. This will prevent your muffins from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, and pure vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 6: Mix the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay!

Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full to allow room for rising.

Step 8: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Lemon Muffins fresh or store them for later!

Expert Tips

• Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them to incorporate more easily into the batter.
• For an extra burst of lemon flavor, sprinkle a little lemon zest on top of the muffins before baking.
• Do not overmix the batter; this will help keep the muffins light and airy.
• For a lovely glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice and drizzle it over the cooled muffins.

Variations and Customizations

• Add poppy seeds for a delightful texture and a lovely visual appeal.
• Incorporate fresh blueberries for a fruity twist.
• For a richer taste, substitute half of the Greek yogurt with sour cream.
• Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as orange or lime, for a twist on the classic lemon flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Lemon Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them! Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQ

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to include a binder, like xanthan gum, if your blend doesn’t already contain one.

Can I use a different type of yogurt?

Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt with any yogurt of your choice, including dairy-free options. Just ensure it’s of similar consistency.

Why are my muffins dense?

Dense muffins can often be a result of overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Ensure you measure your flour accurately and mix just until combined.

Can I make mini lemon muffins instead?

Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

These Lemon Muffins are a delightful treat infused with the bright flavor of fresh lemons. They are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and the perfect complement to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Enjoy these treats fresh from the oven or stored for later, and don’t hesitate to customize them to suit your taste preferences. Happy baking!

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