“A delightful treat with a bright, citrusy flavor and a hint of crunch from poppy seeds. Moist and flavorful, they make a perfect breakfast or snack option.”
Ingredients:
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons poppy seeds
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of 2 lemons
3/4 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt or regular)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
2 large eggs
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, melted butter, eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be lumpy.
Fill Muffin Cups:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cool:
Remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional Glaze:
If desired, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled muffins.
Serve:
Enjoy the lemon poppy seed muffins warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips:
Fresh Lemon Juice:
For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled.
Yogurt Substitution:
You can use Greek yogurt or regular plain yogurt in this recipe. Greek yogurt will yield slightly denser muffins.
Variations:
Feel free to add a handful of chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) for extra texture if desired.
These lemon poppy seed muffins are bursting with citrus flavor and the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!