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If you're looking to brighten your breakfast or snack time with a burst of flavor and a touch of sunshine, look no further than the delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. These muffins are a perfect blend of zesty lemon and subtle nuttiness from the poppy seeds, creating a treat that's as delicious as it is visually appealing. They are light, fluffy, and incredibly fragrant, making them a favorite for brunch gatherings, afternoon tea, or even a sweet pick-me-up during a busy day.

Light Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Brighten your breakfast with delicious Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins! These delightful treats combine zesty lemon and crunchy poppy seeds for a light and fluffy snack that's perfect for any occasion. This article guides you through a step-by-step recipe, ingredient tips, and creative substitutions for dietary needs. Perfect for brunch or a midday pick-me-up, these muffins are sure to impress. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the fragrance of fresh baking!
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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

½ cup buttermilk (or substitute with ½ cup milk mixed with ½ tablespoon lemon juice for a homemade buttermilk)

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 large lemon (about 1 tablespoon)

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Optional: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for a glaze)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, unsweetened applesauce, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

        Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredient mixture into the large bowl containing the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the two mixtures together. Be careful not to overmix; it is perfectly fine if the batter has a few lumps.

          Fill the Muffin Tin: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the muffin batter evenly among the 12 cups of the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup approximately two-thirds full to allow for rising.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center of one comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

              Cool: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Optional Glaze: For an added touch of sweetness, mix the powdered sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth to create a simple glaze. Drizzle this mixture over the cooled muffins to enhance their flavor and presentation.

                  Enjoy your light and fluffy Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins as a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat!

                    - Prep Time: 10 minutes

                      - Total Time: 30 minutes

                        - Servings: 12 muffins

                          Presentation Tips: For an inviting display, arrange the muffins on a colorful cake stand and garnish them with a few slices of lemon or sprigs of fresh mint.