Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

Featured in: Light Sweet Bowls & Treats

These sweet lemon zest muffins offer a moist and tender crumb balanced with a bright, citrusy flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and fresh lemon juice and zest, the batter is gently folded to maintain a fluffy texture. Baked until lightly golden, the muffins provide a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes, ideal for a sunny brunch or a light treat. Optional coarse sugar on top adds a delicate crunch. Ready in just over half an hour, they are easy to make and delightful to enjoy.

Updated on Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:35:00 GMT
Simple sweet lemon zest muffins, golden brown and fluffy, perfect with a cup of hot coffee at breakfast. Pin It
Simple sweet lemon zest muffins, golden brown and fluffy, perfect with a cup of hot coffee at breakfast. | sweetcairn.com

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

I have always enjoyed these muffins for a cheerful brunch with family and friends.

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

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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.
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Blend smoothies, sauces, and shakes quickly for easy breakfasts, snacks, and meal prep.
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Blend smoothies, sauces, and shakes quickly for easy breakfasts, snacks, and meal prep.
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Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, speckled with zest, offer a sweet and tangy aroma. Pin It
Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, speckled with zest, offer a sweet and tangy aroma. | sweetcairn.com

These muffins have become a beloved family favorite especially for weekend breakfasts.

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 Verify ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination.

Nutritional Information

Calories 180 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 26 g Protein 3 g

A close-up of light and airy Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, showcasing a delicate, tender crumb texture. Pin It
A close-up of light and airy Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, showcasing a delicate, tender crumb texture. | sweetcairn.com
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Enjoy these delightful muffins fresh for the best taste and texture.

Recipe FAQs

How do I keep the muffins moist?

Use melted butter and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain moisture and a tender crumb.

Can I substitute the lemon zest with another citrus?

Yes, orange or lime zest can be used to provide a different but equally refreshing citrus note.

What is the purpose of baking soda and baking powder?

They work together to help the muffins rise and create a light, fluffy texture.

How do I prevent muffins from sticking to the tin?

Line the muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with butter before filling.

Can these be frozen for later?

Yes, store fully cooled muffins in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months.

What optional toppings can enhance texture?

Sprinkling coarse or sparkling sugar before baking adds a subtle crunch to the muffin tops.

Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

Moist, fluffy muffins with bright lemon zest and a tender, sweet crumb ideal for brunch or an afternoon snack.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
Time to Cook
18 minutes
Time Needed
33 minutes
Recipe by Hunter Phillips


Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 12 Portions

Dietary Notes Suitable for Vegetarians

Ingredient List

Dry Ingredients

01 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 3/4 cup granulated sugar
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
03 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
04 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest (about 2 medium lemons)
05 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
06 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Topping

01 2 tablespoons coarse or sparkling sugar

Steps

Step 01

Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease 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 the eggs, milk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.

Step 04

Incorporate Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 05

Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar if using.

Step 06

Bake: Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.

Step 07

Cool Muffins: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool to room temperature.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Info

Look through each ingredient for allergens and check with a healthcare provider if you’re uncertain.
  • Contains eggs, milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and butter. Verify packaged ingredients for potential cross-contamination.

Nutrition Info (each serving)

Figures are for reference only—always seek medical advice when needed.
  • Caloric Value: 180
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 26 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams