Perfectly Baked Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Lemon blueberry muffins have been a favorite among dessert lovers for ages. The tangy zest of lemon combined with the sweetness of blueberries makes for an incredibly delightful and refreshing treat that can be enjoyed as a breakfast or a light snack.

This recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious, moist, and flavorful muffins within just 30 minutes! You'll need approximately 25 minutes to bake them in a standard muffin pan. The lemon blueberry muffins are perfect for sharing with friends or family, making each bite a joyous experience.

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest (from about two lemons)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen if preferred)

Instructions

1. Mix together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and lemon zest in a large bowl. Set aside.

2. In another small bowl, mix the beaten egg, melted butter, sour cream (or yogurt), vanilla extract, and grated lemon zest until smooth. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined; do not overmix as this can cause the muffins to become tough.

3. Gently fold in the blueberries into the batter using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to over-mix again, as that could cause the muffins to collapse during baking.

4. Line your muffin pan with paper liners and fill each cup about 2/3 full of batter.

5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips and Variations

• For extra lemon flavor, you can zest an additional lemon just before using it in baking. The lemon zest adds a vibrant citrus taste that enhances all the other ingredients.
• If you have any leftover blueberries, consider freezing them for future recipes like pancakes or smoothies!
• To give your muffins more texture, add a few tablespoons of chopped walnuts into the batter after folding in the blueberries. This will create a delightful contrast to the softness of the muffin.

Lemon blueberry muffins are not only delightful for the palate but also offer numerous health benefits. Blueberries, rich in antioxidants, help protect your body against oxidative stress and inflammation. Adding lemon zest provides you with vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 250 kcal

• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 14g (75% of which is from healthy monounsaturated fats)
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 18g

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Leftover muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, they can also be frozen individually wrapped between sheets of parchment paper for longer storage life.

To serve your delicious lemon blueberry muffins, you might want to pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. A light salad or a fruit bowl would complement the richness and tanginess perfectly as well!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these lemon blueberry muffins are more than just an indulgence; they're a delightful blend of flavors that can uplift your day. With their vibrant taste and array of health benefits, these muffins make for the perfect addition to any meal or snack time.

Happy baking!