Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Servings: 12 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Plate with four Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. pinit

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Indulge in the refreshing flavors of our delectable Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. Bursting with tangy lemon zest and delicate poppy seeds, these muffins are a delightful treat that will brighten up your mornings or add a touch of sunshine to any occasion. With their moist and fluffy texture, these citrus-infused delights are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to create these irresistible muffins that are sure to leave you craving more.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, with their delightful combination of citrusy zest and the gentle crunch of poppy seeds, are a beloved treat that has a history as bright and cheery as their flavor.

  • Early Muffin Origins: Muffins, in various forms, have been around for centuries. The term “muffin” dates back to the early 18th century and referred to a type of sweet bread roll.
  • Poppy Seeds: The use of poppy seeds in baked goods has a long history, particularly in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines. These tiny, kidney-shaped seeds not only add a unique texture but also a nutty flavor.
  • Lemon’s Rise to Popularity: The pairing of lemon and poppy seeds likely began in the 20th century when lemon-flavored desserts gained popularity. The bright, tangy flavor of lemons complements the subtle crunch and earthy taste of poppy seeds perfectly.

Today, Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are a classic bakery item and a delightful addition to breakfasts, brunches, or afternoon tea.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Our Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are a delightful combination of tangy lemon and subtle crunch from the poppy seeds. Each bite offers a burst of citrusy goodness that will awaken your taste buds. These muffins boast a tender crumb and a lightly sweetened glaze that adds the perfect touch of indulgence. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat or as a dessert, these muffins are guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

Tools and Equipment

Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 12 Calories: 260.41 Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

For the bread dough:

For the glaze:

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.

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

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

  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

  5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full.

  6. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

  7. While the muffins are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.

  8. Once the muffins are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

  9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins and let it set before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12


Amount Per Serving
Calories 260.41kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9.46g15%
Saturated Fat 5.24g27%
Cholesterol 52.42mg18%
Sodium 182.89mg8%
Potassium 73.21mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 40.4g14%
Dietary Fiber 0.88g4%
Sugars 23.63g
Protein 4.04g9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note

Tips and Variations:
  • For an extra burst of lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon taste, increase the amount of lemon zest.
  • You can substitute buttermilk for regular milk to add tanginess and moisture to the muffins.
  • Customize your muffins by adding a handful of blueberries, raspberries, or diced strawberries to the batter.
  • Sprinkle some additional poppy seeds on top of the glaze for an attractive finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Enjoy these Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins as a delightful breakfast on the go, a brunch centerpiece, or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea. Serve them warm or at room temperature.
Allergen Information:

Here's the allergen information for Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins:

  • Gluten: Traditional muffin recipes contain wheat flour, which contains gluten. To make gluten-free versions, you can use gluten-free flour blends.

  • Dairy: Some muffin recipes include butter and milk. You can use dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter to make dairy-free muffins.

  • Eggs: Eggs are a common ingredient in muffins. You can replace eggs with alternatives like applesauce, yogurt, or commercial egg replacers for vegan muffins.

Wine or Drink Pairing:

Pairing a beverage with your Lemon Poppy Seed Muffin can enhance the flavors:

  • Tea: A classic choice, black tea or herbal teas like chamomile or lemon verbena complement the citrusy notes of the muffin.

  • Coffee: Coffee lovers can enjoy a cup of their favorite brew, whether it's black coffee, a latte, or cappuccino.

  • Iced Lemonade: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, pair your muffin with a refreshing glass of iced lemonade.

Storage and Leftovers:

To keep your Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins fresh and delicious:

Keywords: Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, citrus muffins, breakfast muffins, lemon zest, poppy seeds, tangy, sweet, moist, fluffy

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I substitute lemon juice with lemon extract in Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with lemon extract if needed. Use about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for every 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. However, fresh lemon juice provides a more natural, vibrant flavor, while extract is more concentrated, so adjust accordingly for taste.

How do I prevent my Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins from being too dense?

To avoid dense muffins, be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, leading to denser muffins. Using room-temperature ingredients, such as eggs and milk, also helps create a lighter, fluffier texture.

Can I make these Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Replace the melted butter with a neutral oil like vegetable oil or a dairy-free margarine. The muffins will still turn out moist and flavorful with a slight variation in taste depending on the substitutes used.

How long do Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins stay fresh?

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months, wrapped individually and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature or reheat for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What is the best way to glaze Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins?

To glaze Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins, ensure they are completely cooled first to prevent the glaze from melting. Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle the glaze over the muffins using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set before serving to achieve the perfect sweet and tangy finish.

Can I freeze Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins?

Yes, Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins freeze well. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw the muffins at room temperature or microwave them for a quick warm treat.

Why do my Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins have a bitter taste?

A bitter taste in Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins may come from over-using lemon zest or including the white pith of the lemon when zesting. Ensure you zest only the outer yellow layer, as the pith is quite bitter. Also, balance the acidity of the lemon with sugar to create a pleasant, tangy flavor.

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