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When it comes to baked goods that can brighten your day, few items can compete with the delightful Zesty Sunshine Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. Bursting with vibrant flavors and a tender crumb, these muffins are a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or a sweet afternoon treat. The combination of zesty lemon and the delightful crunch of poppy seeds creates a harmonious blend that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a refreshing lift.

Light Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Brighten your baking repertoire with Zesty Sunshine Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins! These delightful treats combine tangy lemon and crunchy poppy seeds for a refreshing flavor burst. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, they’re easy to make and sure to impress. Discover tips for selecting fresh ingredients, mastering cooking techniques, and personalizing your muffins with delicious add-ins. Bring a sunny touch to your kitchen with this scrumptious recipe!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

2 large eggs, at room temperature

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

¼ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup vegetable oil

Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon)

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: Extra lemon zest and poppy seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a standard muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly spraying each cup with non-stick cooking spray.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined and there are no clumps.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them lightly. Add the plain Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and homogenous mixture.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold and mix until just combined. Take care not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

          Fill Muffin Tins: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, evenly distribute the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few extra poppy seeds and some lemon zest on the batter before baking.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.

              Cool: Once baked, carefully remove the muffins from the oven. Allow them to cool in the muffin tin for approximately 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Serve and Enjoy: These muffins are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a delightful addition to your breakfast or a satisfying afternoon snack.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                    - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                      - Total Time: 30 minutes

                        - Servings: Makes 12 muffins