Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

Featured in: Light Sweet Citrus Treats

These sweet lemon zest muffins are moist and fluffy, offering a fresh burst of bright citrus flavor in each bite. Made with simple pantry staples and fresh lemon zest and juice, they create a tender crumb perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack. Baking is straightforward, using baking powder and soda for rise, with a light sprinkle of coarse sugar atop for texture. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and tangy moments with these easy-to-make muffins.

Updated on Tue, 09 Dec 2025 14:17:00 GMT
Golden Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, with sparkling sugar topping, ready to enjoy with coffee or tea. Pin it
Golden Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, with sparkling sugar topping, ready to enjoy with coffee or tea. | citrusfable.com

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

This recipe has become a staple for our weekend breakfasts and always brings smiles to the table.

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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Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.
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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.
Product image
Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Rinse produce, clean cookware, and fill pots smoothly with flexible spray options for everyday cooking.
Check price on Amazon
Close-up of freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, smelling of bright lemon and vanilla. Pin it
Close-up of freshly baked Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, smelling of bright lemon and vanilla. | citrusfable.com

My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these muffins fresh from the oven, making every morning special.

Tips for Perfect Muffins

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffier muffins.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the milk for a tangier richer muffin.

Storage Suggestions

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Plated, moist Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, perfect for a brunch spread, with a tender, sweet crumb. Pin it
Plated, moist Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins, perfect for a brunch spread, with a tender, sweet crumb. | citrusfable.com
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Ideal for slow-simmered sauces, braised vegetables, baked dips, and cozy one-pot meals with even heat.
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Enjoy these simple yet delightful lemon zest muffins warm or at room temperature, perfect for any occasion.

Simple Sweet Lemon Zest Muffins

Fluffy muffins with bright lemon zest and a sweet, tender crumb for a delightful treat anytime.

Prep time
15 minutes
Time to cook
18 minutes
Overall time
33 minutes
Created by Noah Roberts


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Serves 12 Portions

Diet info Vegetarian

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

Directions

Step 01

Prepare the oven and muffin tin: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin 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.

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. Gently fold together with a spatula until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 05

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

Step 06

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

Step 07

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

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Advice

Review ingredients for allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Contains eggs, milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and butter.

Nutritional Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is an estimate and not medical advice.
  • Total Calories: 180
  • Fats: 7 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 26 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams