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Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

These lemon poppy seed muffins combine bright citrus flavors with a tender crumb and a subtle crunch from toasted poppy seeds. The recipe involves mixing wet and dry ingredients separately, folding them gently, and baking until golden. The final appearance is a light, golden muffin with a fragrant lemon aroma and a slightly crunchy top.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds lightly toasted
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled slightly
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest from about 1 lemon

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Muffin tin
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and toasted poppy seeds until evenly combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then add the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy.
  5. Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Smooth the tops lightly with the back of a spoon.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with a bright lemon aroma.
  7. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly for easier handling.
  8. Enjoy the muffins warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with lemon glaze for added zing.

Notes

For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a splash of lemon extract. Toast the poppy seeds lightly to enhance their nutty aroma. These muffins are best enjoyed within 2 days or frozen for longer storage.