Perfectly Baked Lemon Muffins

Lemon muffins have been a favorite treat for many, offering the perfect blend of tang and sweetness that complements a cup of tea or coffee on a chilly morning.

These delicious lemon muffins are not only easy to make but also taste incredibly fresh. They’re an excellent way to start your day with a burst of citrus flavors in each bite. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or something delightful to bring along to work, these muffins are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, slightly beaten
1/2 cup sour cream (you can use Greek yogurt or plain yogurt)
3 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled a bit
Zest of 2 lemons
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another smaller bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, sour cream, melted butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined well. Set aside this mixture.
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; do not overmix as it will keep your muffins from becoming too dense.
Divide the batter evenly among 12 paper-lined muffin cups. If you're not using paper liners, grease each cup lightly so that your muffins don’t stick to them during baking.
For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle a bit of sugar on top of each muffin before placing them in the oven.
Bake at 375°F for about 18-20 minutes until golden brown and spring back when you gently press on their tops.
Let them cool completely in the pan for around 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Enjoy while still warm!

Cooking Time

The total preparation and baking time for this recipe is approximately 35 minutes.

The baking process takes about 18-20 minutes at an oven temperature of 375°F, while the cooling period after removing them from the oven adds another 10 minutes.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins.

If you plan to share these with family or friends, it’s wise to prepare at least one extra batch. This way, no one feels left out and there are always some left for later.

Tips & Variations

For a richer taste, consider adding 1 tablespoon of lemon curd spread on the top of each muffin before baking.
If you prefer a more sour flavor profile, increase the amount of lemon juice used to 4 tablespoons instead of the standard 3 tablespoons mentioned in the recipe.
To make this dessert even healthier, replace butter with unsalted margarine or use less sugar in the mixture for a lighter option. However, keep an eye on other ingredients as they might need adjusting if you do so.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Lemon muffins are best enjoyed fresh from the oven but can be stored well within 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

For longer storage, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for up to one week. They also freeze beautifully; simply store individually wrapped muffins in freezer bags or containers without the added sugar sprinkled on top since that might cause clumping during freezing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lemon muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by everyone who loves citrus flavors. They're easy to prepare and versatile enough to accommodate various preferences in sweetness levels or additions like cream cheese frosting if desired. Perfectly baked lemon muffins will surely satisfy your cravings for something sweet yet refreshing.

Enjoy every bite of these yummy lemon muffins, whether you're starting your day with a cup of tea or ending it with a delightful afternoon snack!