Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

Featured in: Weekend Cabin-Style Treats

These moist and fluffy muffins deliver a bright lemon zest flavor paired with a tender, sweet crumb. Combining all-purpose flour, fresh lemon zest and juice, and a touch of vanilla, the batter blends effortlessly. Baking at 375°F yields golden tops and a soft interior, ideal for a sunny brunch or an afternoon indulgence. Optional coarse sugar topping adds a sparkling crunch. Variations include adding lemon extract or Greek yogurt for richer, tangier notes. These muffins freeze well, making them a convenient, sweet option anytime.

Updated on Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:24:00 GMT
Golden-brown Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, perfectly domed, with sparkling sugar topping, ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, perfectly domed, with sparkling sugar topping, ready to enjoy. | mosscedar.com

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

These muffins have become a family favorite every weekend especially for brunch gatherings.

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 23 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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| mosscedar.com

My kids love enjoying these muffins fresh with a glass of milk on weekend mornings making our kitchen lively and warm.

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 If using packaged ingredients verify labels for potential cross-contamination

Nutritional Information

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

Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, smelling of bright citrus, ideal for breakfast or a snack. Save to Pinterest
Freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, smelling of bright citrus, ideal for breakfast or a snack. | mosscedar.com

These muffins bring a refreshing citrus twist to your baking repertoire perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure the muffins stay moist?

Use melted butter and avoid overmixing the batter. The combination of lemon juice and zest also contributes moisture and flavor.

Can I substitute whole milk with a different dairy or non-dairy option?

Yes, you can use buttermilk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a slightly different texture and flavor.

What is the purpose of baking soda and baking powder in these muffins?

Both leavening agents help the muffins rise, creating a light and fluffy texture with tender crumbs.

Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest and juice?

Fresh lemon zest and juice provide the brightest, most vibrant lemon flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

How should I store leftovers to maintain freshness?

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

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

Time to Prep
15 minutes
Time to Cook
18 minutes
Overall Time
33 minutes
Recipe by Jacob King


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 12 Number of Servings

Dietary Details Vegetarian-Friendly

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 cooled
04 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
05 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
06 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Topping

01 2 tablespoons coarse sugar

How to Prepare

Step 01

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

Step 02

Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Combine 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 among muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired.

Step 06

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

Step 07

Cool muffins: Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

What You’ll Need

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

Allergy Details

Always check every ingredient for allergens. Talk to a healthcare provider if you’re not sure.
  • Contains eggs, milk, wheat (gluten), and butter. Verify labels for potential cross-contamination.

Nutrition Information (each serving)

Nutrition info is for reference only and not a substitute for doctor’s advice.
  • Energy: 180
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Total Protein: 3 g