Name: Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 large egg; ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed; ¾ cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup Greek yogurt, plain, full fat; Zest of two lemons; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 2 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup lemon juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 73 reviews

If you love bright and zesty flavors that just sing in every bite, then you are going to adore this Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe. These delightful muffins combine the refreshing tang of fresh lemon juice and zest with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds, all wrapped in a moist, tender crumb that is absolutely irresistible. Topped with a simple but luscious lemon glaze that adds the perfect sweet-tart finish, these muffins make for the ultimate breakfast treat or afternoon pick-me-up. Once you try this Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe, it will undoubtedly become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A dark gray metal muffin tray holds twelve white paper liners filled with uncooked light yellow cake batter dotted with small black seeds and small pieces of orange zest mixed throughout. The tray rests on a white marbled surface with three lemon wedges—two near the top right and one at the bottom left—and a teal cloth placed near the bottom right corner. The batter in each liner is spread evenly with a smooth, creamy texture and slight peaks on some muffins, ready to be baked photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create a muffin that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the tangy lemon juice that brightens the batter to the yogurt that keeps these muffins wonderfully moist and tender.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the muffins, providing structure and softness.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right sweetness without overpowering the lemon.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This leavening agent helps the muffins rise light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and tartness perfectly.
1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Brings richness and tender crumb to the muffins.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the muffin’s moist texture.
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Infuses each bite with vibrant, natural lemon flavor.
¾ cup whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and ensures softness.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds a warming, aromatic sweetness that complements the citrus.
⅓ cup plain, full-fat Greek yogurt: Helps create a tender crumb with a slight tang for depth.
Zest of two lemons: Intensifies the lemon flavor with fragrant oils from the rind.
1 tablespoon poppy seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and a lovely nutty note.
For the optional lemon glaze: 2 cups powdered sugar and ¼ cup lemon juice to drizzle over warm muffins for a glossy, sweet finish.

How to Make Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line your muffin pan with paper baking cups so your muffins can bake evenly and come out easily. This simple prep work sets you up for perfect muffins every time.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking these together ensures they are evenly distributed so your muffins will have a uniform rise and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Into the same bowl, add melted and cooled butter, the egg, freshly squeezed lemon juice, whole milk, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt. Whisk everything until the batter is smooth and well incorporated. This mixture will create a moist, flavorful base for your muffins.

Step 4: Fold in Lemon Zest and Poppy Seeds

Now, gently fold in the grated lemon zest and poppy seeds. Folding rather than vigorously stirring keeps the batter tender and light while distributing those gorgeous pops of flavor just right.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops turn a lovely golden color.

Step 6: Add the Glaze

While your muffins are still warm from the oven, quickly whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to create a simple glaze. Dunk the tops of the muffins or drizzle the glaze over them. If you want, sprinkle extra poppy seeds on top for that final touch of charm.

How to Serve Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe

The image shows a single lemon poppy seed muffin placed on a white plate with a smooth surface. The muffin has a light golden color with small dark poppy seeds spread evenly throughout. On top, there is a layer of white glaze drizzled in thick lines, with some glaze dripping slightly down the sides. Small pieces of yellow lemon zest and black poppy seeds are scattered on the glaze as decoration. The background features a white marbled texture with a slice of lemon slightly blurred in the distance, and a second muffin is partially visible on the right side. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really make your muffins shine, sprinkle a few extra poppy seeds or a little fresh lemon zest over the glaze. It adds a pretty, fresh element and heightens the citrus aroma, making each bite an experience.

Side Dishes

These bright and tender muffins are fantastic alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee in the morning or afternoon. For a fuller brunch, pair them with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a simple fruit salad to keep things light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve the muffins warmed with a light spread of butter or cream cheese. You can also stack a few with layers of lemon curd between them for a playful, mini dessert. Another fun idea is to cut them in half and add fresh sliced strawberries inside for a quick and easy summery treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These muffins store wonderfully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Because the glaze is made without dairy, they won’t get soggy quickly, making them perfect to keep on your kitchen counter for easy snacking.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe around longer, freeze them! Wrap each muffin individually with plastic wrap or foil, then place them all in an airtight freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly when you need a fresh-baked feeling treat.

Reheating

To reheat, simply leave the muffins out at room temperature to thaw or pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. The glaze will soften nicely, refreshing the muffins as if they were just made.

FAQs

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

Yes! If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can substitute lemon extract for the juice, but use sparingly as it’s more concentrated. The fresh juice is preferred for that natural brightness, but lemon extract still makes a tasty muffin.

How do I prevent the muffins from drying out?

The key is not to overmix your batter and to keep an eye on baking time. Overbaking can dry them out. Using Greek yogurt also adds moisture to keep the muffins tender and soft.

Can I add blueberries or other fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! Toss about a cup of fresh blueberries with a little flour, then gently fold them into the batter along with the poppy seeds. It adds a lovely fruity twist that pairs beautifully with lemon.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, another thick plain yogurt will work, or you can strain regular yogurt through cheesecloth until thick. Thick sour cream is also a good alternative that keeps the muffins moist.

Is it necessary to add the lemon glaze?

The glaze is optional but highly recommended! It adds a glossy finish and an extra burst of citrus sweetness that elevates these muffins from delicious to absolutely spectacular.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about baking Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe — it’s like bringing sunshine straight to your kitchen. These muffins are incredibly easy to make and turn out perfectly moist, flavorful, and just sweet enough every time. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a casual dessert, they are a wonderful way to brighten anyone’s day. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it becomes a fast favorite in your home, too!