Simple Sweet Lemon Muffins

Featured in: Soft Crumb Comfort Desserts

These moist, fluffy muffins capture the bright zing of freshly grated lemon zest and juice, balanced with a tender crumb and subtle sweetness. Combining simple pantry staples and fresh citrus, this easy-to-make batch yields a dozen delicate muffins perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack. The batter folds gently to maintain softness, with an optional sprinkle of coarse sugar adding a subtle crunch. Baking takes under 20 minutes, rewarding with golden tops and a zesty aroma that fills the kitchen.

Updated on Fri, 05 Dec 2025 09:22:00 GMT
Golden Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, a perfect, fluffy treat with a delightful citrus aroma. Save
Golden Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, a perfect, fluffy treat with a delightful citrus aroma. | rosewoodcrumb.com

Moist, fluffy muffins bursting with bright lemon flavor and a sweet, tender crumb perfect for a sunny brunch or an afternoon treat.

This recipe quickly became a favorite in my family because it is easy to make and perfect for any time of day.

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

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 18 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.
Enjoy a stack of warm Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, with a sweet, crumbly top, baked to perfection. Save
Enjoy a stack of warm Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, with a sweet, crumbly top, baked to perfection. | rosewoodcrumb.com

Making these muffins always brings my family together for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Notes

Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the milk for a tangier richer muffin.

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.

Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, tender and zesty, make a wonderful brunch choice. Save
Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, tender and zesty, make a wonderful brunch choice. | rosewoodcrumb.com

These muffins are a delightful treat that brighten any day with their sweet and tangy notes.

Recipe FAQs

How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

Adding a small amount of lemon extract or extra freshly grated zest boosts the citrus notes, making the muffins more vibrant.

What is the best way to store these muffins?

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer freshness.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?

Greek yogurt can replace half the milk for a richer texture, while using plant-based milk and butter alternatives can adjust for dietary preferences.

Why fold the batter gently?

Folding prevents overmixing, helping to keep the muffins tender and fluffy without developing a tough texture.

What is the purpose of sprinkling coarse sugar on top?

Coarse sugar adds a subtle crunch and a sparkling finish to the muffins' golden tops, enhancing their texture.

Simple Sweet Lemon Muffins

Fluffy muffins filled with fresh lemon zest and juice, perfect for a bright and tender baked delight.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time to Cook
18 minutes
Total Duration
33 minutes
Recipe by Miles Porter


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 12 Number of Servings

Diet Preferences Vegetarian Option

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 cooled (120 ml)
04 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest (approximately 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 Make It

Step 01

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

Step 02

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

Step 03

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

Step 04

Incorporate Wet into Dry: Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 05

Fill Muffin Cups: Distribute batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Optionally, sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step 06

Bake Muffins: Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted centrally comes out clean and tops turn lightly golden.

Step 07

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

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Go through every item to spot any allergens. Not sure? Check with your health expert.
  • Contains eggs, dairy (milk and butter), and gluten (wheat). Verify labels for cross-contamination if using packaged ingredients.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

For reference only. Always check with your doctor for health advice.
  • Caloric Value: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Proteins: 3 g