Strawberry Lemon Muffins are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of spring and summer flavors. These light and fluffy muffins are studded with juicy, ripe strawberries and infused with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon zest and juice. The combination of sweet strawberries and tangy lemon not only makes these muffins irresistibly tasty but also wonderfully aromatic. Whether you’re enjoying them alongside your morning coffee or as a sunny afternoon treat, Strawberry Lemon Muffins bring a burst of freshness to any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Coarse sugar for topping or lemon glaze (1 cup powdered sugar mixed with 2 tablespoons lemon juice)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Gently stir in the diced strawberries to coat them with the flour mixture; this helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the muffins.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Add the milk, vegetable oil, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Fold together using a spatula just until the ingredients are combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.
- Fill Muffin Cups and Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. If desired, sprinkle the tops with coarse sugar for a crunchy finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze:
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If using lemon glaze, drizzle it over the cooled muffins for an extra hit of lemon flavor.
Strawberry Lemon Muffins are a beautiful combination of fruity sweetness and refreshing citrus notes, making them a popular favorite that’s sure to brighten up your day. Perfect for seasonal gatherings or simply as a delightful way to start the day, these muffins are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
