These fluffy yogurt muffins are delightfully light and bursting with citrus flavor from the zest of lemon or orange. With their soft texture and a hint of vanilla, they make a perfect treat for breakfast, tea time, or as an on-the-go snack.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
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Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- 150 g (3/4 cup) white sugar
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) cold milk
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) sunflower oil
- 100 g (1/2 cup) cold melted butter
- 125 g (1/2 cup) unsweetened plain yogurt
- 8 g (1 tablespoon) vanilla sugar
- 300 g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 16 g (1 tablespoon) baking powder
- Zest of one lemon or orange
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and white sugar until light and creamy.
- Add the cold milk, sunflower oil, and melted butter. Mix well.
- Stir in the yogurt and vanilla sugar, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the lemon or orange zest to distribute it evenly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The tops should be golden and spring back when lightly pressed.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature, plain or with butter, jam, or honey.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Pair with fresh fruit and a cup of tea or coffee for a balanced snack.
- Spread with a dollop of lemon curd or orange marmalade for an extra citrus kick.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic presentation.
- Top with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon or orange juice.
Cooking Tips
- For extra fluffiness, ensure eggs and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing.
- Gently fold the batter to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense muffins.
- Use freshly grated zest for the best citrus flavor.
- If you prefer sweeter muffins, increase the sugar to 175 g (7/8 cup).
- Add mix-ins like blueberries, poppy seeds, or chopped nuts for variation.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and probiotics for gut health.
- Citrus Zest: Packed with antioxidants and adds a refreshing flavor.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Uses sunflower oil and butter for a balanced fat content.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat or animal by-products (except dairy and eggs).
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels to your preference.
- Easily Adaptable: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Facts (Per Muffin)
- Calories: ~210
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: ~150 mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to prepare with common ingredients.
- Perfectly light and fluffy with a refreshing citrus flavor.
- Versatile enough for breakfast, snacks, or desserts.
- Adaptable with add-ins like berries, nuts, or spices.
Conclusion
These Fluffy Lemon (or Orange) Yogurt Muffins are a perfect balance of light sweetness and bright citrus flavor. Their soft and airy texture makes them a delightful treat for any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, they’re sure to impress family and friends with their irresistible taste and easy preparation. Add this versatile recipe to your baking repertoire for a reliable go-to treat!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well and adds a slightly tangier flavor. - Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, melted coconut oil or vegetable oil can replace sunflower oil. - What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
Substitute with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. - Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute. - What’s the best way to store these muffins?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze the muffins?
Absolutely! Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. - Can I add mix-ins like fruits or nuts?
Yes, blueberries, poppy seeds, or chopped nuts make great additions. - What’s the best way to reheat frozen muffins?
Thaw at room temperature and warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 5 minutes. - How can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and substitute butter with melted coconut oil. - Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?
Yes, bake mini muffins at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes.