Lemon Poppyseed Muffins

Name: Lemon Poppyseed Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; Zest of 1 lemon; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

Indulge in the bright and refreshing flavor of lemon poppyseed muffins, a perfect blend of citrus and texture. These delightful muffins are not only light and fluffy but also packed with a burst of lemony goodness. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack, they are sure to brighten your day and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this simple and delicious recipe that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1 cup sour cream
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh lemon juice

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes for baking.

Nutritional Value

Each muffin (approximately 100g) contains about 250 calories, 10g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, 2g of protein, and 1g of fiber. This information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.
In another bowl, combine the sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.
Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 5 minutes.
Transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Coconut oil can replace vegetable oil, and honey can be used instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Serving and Pairings

Lemon poppyseed muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be served with fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a refreshing breakfast.

Storage and Reheating

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can make muffins dense.
Using stale baking powder can prevent proper rising.
Not preheating the oven may lead to uneven baking.
Skipping the muffin liners can result in sticking.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.

Helpful Tips

For extra lemon flavor, add more zest.
Let the muffins cool completely before storing.
Experiment with adding blueberries for added sweetness.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it’s a 1:1 ratio for best results.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done.

Can I use lemon extract instead of juice?

Yes, you can use lemon extract, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the flavor.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or almonds can add a delightful crunch to your muffins.

What can I do if the muffins are too dry?

If they turn out dry, consider adding a splash of milk or lemon juice to the batter next time or reducing the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Lemon poppyseed muffins are a delightful treat that combines the bright flavor of lemon with the unique texture of poppy seeds. Perfect for any occasion, these muffins are easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or store them for later, but either way, they are a delicious addition to your culinary repertoire!