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Bright, flavorful, and oh-so-tempting, Zesty Sunshine Muffins are the perfect treat to uplift your morning routine or to add a cheerful touch to your afternoon tea. These delightful muffins combine the refreshing tang of citrus with a soft, fluffy texture that makes every bite a burst of sunshine. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to brighten your day and impress your family and friends.

Light Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Start your day off right with these Zesty Sunshine Muffins! Bursting with vibrant lemon flavor, these fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With fresh ingredients like Greek yogurt and a light balance of sweetness, they offer a refreshing alternative to heavier baked goods. Easy to make and adaptable for various dietary needs, these muffins are sure to impress family and friends alike. Bake up some sunshine today!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

¼ cup poppy seeds

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

2 large eggs

⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

½ cup low-fat yogurt or buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: Extra lemon zest and poppy seeds for topping

Instructions
 

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

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, poppy seeds, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, blend the granulated sugar and applesauce until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, yogurt (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

          Fill Muffin Tins: Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup about ⅔ full. If desired, sprinkle extra lemon zest and a few poppy seeds on top for an appealing finish.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

              Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Makes 12 muffins