Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Name: Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen); 1 large egg; ½ cup buttermilk; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest

These lemon blueberry muffins are a delightful treat, bursting with fresh flavors that brighten any morning. The zesty lemon pairs beautifully with the sweet juiciness of blueberries, creating a perfect breakfast or snack option. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins are sure to please. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
1 large egg
½ cup buttermilk
⅓ cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 muffins. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each muffin (1 serving) contains approximately 180 calories, 7g fat, 26g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber. This information is based on one muffin.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes in the tin.
Transfer muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Greek yogurt can replace buttermilk, or you can make a DIY version by mixing milk with vinegar. Fresh lemons can be swapped with bottled lemon juice, although fresh is preferable for flavor.

Serving and Pairings

These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve them alongside yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can result in tough muffins.
Not measuring flour accurately can lead to dry muffins.
Baking at the wrong temperature may cause uneven baking.
Using old baking powder or soda can prevent rising.
Skipping the lemon zest will reduce flavor intensity.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Fold in blueberries gently to prevent breaking.
Let muffins cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.
Experiment with different berries for variety.
Top with a sprinkle of sugar before baking for a crunchy crust.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries in the recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just fold them into the batter without thawing to prevent the muffins from turning blue.

How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture.

What can I do if my muffins are too dry?

If your muffins turn out dry, check your flour measurement and ensure you’re not overbaking. Adding a bit more liquid next time may help.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or even spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, give them a few more minutes.

Conclusion

Lemon blueberry muffins are a delightful addition to any breakfast table or snack time. Their bright flavor and fluffy texture make them irresistible. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress family and friends. Enjoy the burst of freshness in every bite!