If you’re looking for the perfect bakery-style treat to brighten your mornings, these Lemon-Blueberry Muffins are a must-try. Combining the refreshing tang of lemon with the sweet juiciness of blueberries, this recipe delivers soft, fluffy muffins that are bursting with flavor in every bite.
Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these muffins are easy to make, freezer-friendly, and taste even better the next day. The balance of citrus and fruit makes them a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Makes 12 standard muffins
Muffins:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or plain yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (200g) fresh or frozen blueberries
Optional Topping:
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar or granulated sugar for sprinkling
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 20–22 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Liquids
- Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Blueberries
- Toss blueberries with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking, then fold them gently into the batter.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
- Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar for a bakery-style finish.
- Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a light spread of butter or lemon curd.
- Pair with a yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast.
- For a dessert version, drizzle with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Freeze extras in an airtight container for up to 3 months — simply reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Muffin (1 serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Total Fat | 9 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 29 grams |
| Sugars | 15 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 160 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, promoting heart and brain health.
- Lemon adds vitamin C and a refreshing flavor with minimal calories.
- Buttermilk creates a tender texture and adds calcium and protein.
- Butter provides richness and helps achieve that soft crumb structure.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Don’t overmix the batter — this ensures a tender, fluffy texture.
- Use fresh blueberries for a juicier result, but frozen berries work too (no need to thaw).
- For a lighter version, replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Poppy Seed Blueberry Muffins: Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for texture.
- Glazed Muffins: Whisk 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons lemon juice and drizzle over cooled muffins.
- Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
- Vegan Option: Use almond milk and coconut oil, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal.
These Lemon-Blueberry Muffins strike the perfect balance between bright citrus and sweet fruit, creating a muffin that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you bake them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, their soft texture and zesty flavor make them a timeless favorite.
Simple, wholesome, and bursting with sunshine flavor — this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.