Go Back
In the world of baking, few treats can rival the delightful zing of a freshly baked muffin, especially when it comes to a recipe as vibrant as Zesty Sunshine Muffins. These muffins are not just a simple breakfast option; they are a celebration of flavor that can brighten any day. Their sunny disposition comes from a blend of zesty lemon and aromatic spices, making them the perfect companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon snack. In today's fast-paced life, where convenience often takes precedence over nutrition, these muffins serve as a reminder of the importance of home-cooked meals. They are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and offer a nourishing alternative to store-bought snacks.

Light Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Start your day on a bright note with Zesty Sunshine Muffins, bursting with refreshing lemon flavor and aromatic spices. These delightful muffins are not just tasty but also nutritious, providing a wholesome alternative to store-bought snacks. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, they’re easy to make and can be tailored to different dietary preferences. Enjoy the simple joy of home baking while nourishing yourself and your loved ones!

Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons poppy seeds

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

2 large eggs

¼ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 large lemon

⅓ cup fresh lemon juice

1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

      Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the applesauce, eggs, oil (or melted coconut oil), vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and well blended.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and fold gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it's okay if there are a few lumps.

          Add Greek Yogurt: Gently fold in the Greek yogurt into the batter until just incorporated. This will add moisture and richness without adding too many calories.

            Fill Muffin Tins: Use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the batter, leaving some space at the top for rising.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the muffins are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

                Cool and Serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 12 servings