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Irresistible Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

lemon poppy seed muffins - featured image

Bright, tender lemon poppy seed muffins with a perfect balance of tangy citrus and subtle crunch, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (120g) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil (light olive oil preferred)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • Zest from 2 medium lemons
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/4 cup (50g) powdered sugar for glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or spray with non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs until frothy. Add Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth but do not overmix.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula just until combined; some lumps are okay.
  5. Spoon batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and tops are lightly golden.
  6. Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Optional: Mix powdered sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice and drizzle over cooled muffins.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs, milk, and yogurt for smooth batter. Do not overmix to avoid dense muffins. Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the best flavor. Use an ice cream scoop for even muffin portions. Start checking muffins at 18 minutes to avoid overbaking. Batter can rest 5 minutes before baking to hydrate poppy seeds and meld flavors. For gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum. For vegan, use flax eggs, plant-based yogurt, and almond or oat milk.

Nutrition

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