Simple Sweet Lemon Muffins

Featured in: Warm Rustic Bakes & Crumbles

These muffins offer a moist, fluffy texture with vibrant lemon zest infusing every bite. Combining simple dry ingredients with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a touch of vanilla, they bake up golden and tender. Perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack, the batter requires gentle folding to maintain lightness. Optionally topped with coarse sugar, they bring a sweet crunch. Great for making ahead and freezing for later enjoyment.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:17:00 GMT
Warm Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, golden brown and fluffy, perfect with a cup of coffee. Pin it
Warm Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, golden brown and fluffy, perfect with a cup of coffee. | plumclover.com

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 for weekend breakfasts and tea time.

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&ndash18 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
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Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.
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Quickly chop vegetables, mince herbs, and blend sauces for faster, everyday meal preparation.
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Image of Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins: tender interiors with bright lemon zest, ready for brunch. Pin it
Image of Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins: tender interiors with bright lemon zest, ready for brunch. | plumclover.com

These muffins freeze well store in an airtight container for up to 2 months

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 If using packaged ingredients verify labels for potential cross-contamination

Nutritional Information

Calories 180 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 26 g Protein 3 g

Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, a delicious treat with a sweet, sugary top. Pin it
Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, a delicious treat with a sweet, sugary top. | plumclover.com
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Enjoy these simple sweet lemon zest muffins as a delightful treat any time of day

Recipe FAQ

What makes these muffins moist and fluffy?

The combination of melted butter, whole milk, and gentle mixing ensures a tender crumb and moist texture.

How is the lemon flavor incorporated naturally?

Freshly grated lemon zest and squeezed lemon juice provide bright citrus notes without overpowering sweetness.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, sprinkling coarse or sparkling sugar on top before baking adds a delightful sweet crunch.

What is the best way to mix the batter?

Gently fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined to maintain airiness and avoid dense texture.

Are there any substitutions for richer flavor?

Replacing half the milk with Greek yogurt enhances tanginess and creates a richer muffin.

Simple Sweet Lemon Muffins

Moist, fluffy muffins with bright lemon zest and a sweet, tender crumb for a delightful treat.

Time to Prepare
15 minutes
Time to Cook
18 minutes
Overall Time
33 minutes
Recipe by Joshua Barnes


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Portions 12 Serving Size

Dietary notes Meatless

What You Need

Dry Ingredients

01 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
02 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
03 2 teaspoons baking powder
04 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

01 2 large eggs
02 1/2 cup whole milk (120 ml)
03 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (120 ml)
04 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons)
05 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (60 ml)
06 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Topping

01 2 tablespoons coarse or sparkling sugar

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter.

Step 02

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.

Step 03

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 04

Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing to preserve muffin texture.

Step 05

Fill Muffin Cups and Add Topping: Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each approximately two-thirds full. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired.

Step 06

Bake Muffins: Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean and tops are lightly golden.

Step 07

Cool Muffins: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Needed Tools

  • 12-cup muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or fine grater

Possible Allergens

Review each item for allergens and get advice from your medical provider if you’re unsure.
  • Contains eggs, dairy (milk and butter), and gluten (wheat). Verify ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination.

Nutritional details (per serving)

For informational use only. Not a substitute for health advice.
  • Energy (kcal): 180
  • Fat content: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Proteins: 3 g