Simple Sweet Lemon Zest

Featured in: Weekend Calm-Kitchen Favorites

These moist and fluffy muffins are infused with freshly grated lemon zest and juice, delivering a bright citrus aroma that enlivens each bite. A balance of sweet granulated sugar and rich butter creates a tender crumb, while baking powder and soda ensure a gentle rise. Perfectly golden on top, they make a delightful addition to any brunch or a satisfying afternoon snack. Optional coarse sugar adds a light sparkle and texture contrast.

The preparation is straightforward, mixing dry and wet ingredients separately before gently folding them to maintain fluffiness. With just 33 minutes from start to finish, these lemon muffins bring a refreshing citrus twist that's both simple and satisfying.

Updated on Mon, 08 Dec 2025 14:57:00 GMT
Fluffy Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, golden brown and glistening, perfect for a cozy morning breakfast. Save to Pinterest
Fluffy Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, golden brown and glistening, perfect for a cozy morning breakfast. | almondmist.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 enjoyed making these simple sweet lemon zest muffins on sunny mornings with my family and they always bring smiles.

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

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.
Close-up of baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, showing their tender crumb and bright citrus zest aroma. Save to Pinterest
Close-up of baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, showing their tender crumb and bright citrus zest aroma. | almondmist.com

My family loves these muffins especially when shared with a cup of tea on weekend mornings bringing us all together.

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs Milk (dairy) Wheat (gluten) Butter. If using packaged ingredients verify labels for potential cross-contamination.

Nutritional Information

Calories 180. Total Fat 7 g. Carbohydrates 26 g. Protein 3 g per muffin.

Required Tools

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

Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, ready to eat, with a tempting sprinkle of coarse sugar on top. Save to Pinterest
Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, ready to eat, with a tempting sprinkle of coarse sugar on top. | almondmist.com

Enjoy these simple sweet lemon zest muffins fresh or frozen for a delightful treat any time.

Recipe FAQs

How do I keep the muffins moist?

Use melted butter and avoid overmixing the batter, folding ingredients gently to keep the crumb tender and moist.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary needs?

Greek yogurt can replace part of the milk for a richer, tangier texture; ensure all substitutes maintain moisture balance.

What gives these muffins their lemon flavor?

Freshly grated lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice provide the bright, natural citrus notes throughout the muffins.

Should I use any topping on the muffins?

Sprinkling coarse or sparkling sugar on top before baking adds a delightful crunch and subtle extra sweetness.

How to check if muffins are baked properly?

Insert a toothpick into a muffin’s center; it should come out clean when baking is complete and muffins turn lightly golden.

Simple Sweet Lemon Zest

Moist, fluffy muffins with bright lemon zest and a tender crumb, perfect for brunch or a sweet treat.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
18 mins
Overall Time
33 mins
Recipe by Ian Moore


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 12 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-Free

What You'll Need

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

How-To

Step 01

Prepare oven and muffin tin: Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter.

Step 02

Combine dry ingredients: Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.

Step 03

Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 04

Incorporate wet and dry mixtures: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 05

Fill muffin cups: Divide batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle coarse sugar over tops if desired.

Step 06

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

Step 07

Cool muffins: Let muffins rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Warnings

Check each food item for possible allergens, and speak with a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains eggs, dairy (milk and butter), and wheat (gluten). Cross-contamination may occur in packaged ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Serving Size)

Use this nutritional breakdown as a general guide—not a replacement for professional advice.
  • Calories: 180
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Proteins: 3 g