Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins Recipe

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If you’re looking for a delightful, easy-to-make treat that’s bursting with citrus flavor, look no further than Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins. These light and moist muffins, made with the sweet and floral flavor of Meyer lemons, are perfect for any occasion. With Greek yogurt in the batter, they’re extra tender, and the glaze made from fresh Meyer lemon juice soaks right into the warm muffins for an irresistible finish. These mini muffins are not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, making them the perfect snack or dessert for any time of day.

Why Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins Are a Must-Try

Meyer lemons are the star ingredient in these muffins. These lemons are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, giving your muffins a bright, floral flavor that’s hard to resist. The addition of Greek yogurt makes the muffins incredibly moist, while a sweet glaze made with Meyer lemon juice ensures that each bite is full of refreshing citrus flavor. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced pro, this recipe is a simple, foolproof way to impress your friends and family with delicious treats.

Ingredients

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the batter, helping to create a soft, tender texture.

White sugar: Sweetens the muffins and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the muffins have a smooth texture.
Flour: The base of the muffins, providing structure.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Greek yogurt: Contributes moisture and a tender crumb, making the muffins light and fluffy.

Baking soda: Helps the muffins rise, creating a soft, airy texture.
Meyer lemons (zested and juiced): The key to the fresh, sweet citrus flavor in both the batter and glaze.
Brown sugar: Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor to the glaze, complementing the citrus perfectly.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

For a dairy-free option, substitute the Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt. This will still provide the necessary moisture while keeping the muffins dairy-free.
If you don’t have Meyer lemons, regular lemons can be used as a substitute, though they may make the muffins slightly more tart.
For a nutty twist, consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter before baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
Add the egg and mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Stir in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
In a separate bowl, stir the baking soda into the Greek yogurt and add it to the batter along with the zest of 2-3 Meyer lemons. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the batter.
Spoon the batter into the mini muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the muffins are light golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the muffins are baking, make the glaze by mixing the Meyer lemon juice and brown sugar in a small bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
Once the muffins are done, remove them from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the warm muffins.

Allow the muffins to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Avoid over-mixing the batter. Stir until just combined to ensure the muffins remain light and fluffy.
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, you can add a bit of extra zest to the glaze.

Make sure to drizzle the glaze over the muffins while they are still warm so they absorb all of the sweet, citrusy goodness.
Leftover muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, or frozen for longer storage.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. For a more indulgent treat, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more adventurous, you can make a spicy version of these muffins by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter, balancing the sweetness with a little heat.

Seasonal Appeal of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are typically in season from winter to early spring, making them the perfect fruit to brighten up your kitchen during the colder months. Their subtle floral flavor makes them an excellent choice for various baked goods, from muffins and cakes to tarts and cookies. With their vibrant yellow hue, Meyer lemons are not just delicious but also visually stunning, making them an ideal ingredient for springtime baking.

These Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins are a perfect example of how a simple ingredient can elevate a recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you love fresh, citrusy treats, these muffins will become a go-to in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the bright, sweet flavor of Meyer lemons in every bite!

Conclusion

Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins are a delightful and simple treat that brings a burst of citrusy sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or looking for a quick snack to enjoy with your morning coffee, these muffins are sure to please. The combination of moist texture, refreshing Meyer lemon flavor, and the sweet glaze makes them a standout recipe that everyone will love. So next time you spot Meyer lemons at the store, be sure to grab a few and treat yourself to these irresistible mini muffins!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular lemons for Meyer lemons, but the flavor will be slightly more tart. Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic, which is why they work so well in these muffins. If you use regular lemons, you may want to reduce the amount of lemon juice in the glaze to balance the acidity.

2. Can I make these muffins without Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt helps keep these muffins moist and tender. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt or even sour cream. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, coconut or almond yogurt would work as well.

3. Can I freeze these Meyer Lemon Mini Muffins?

Absolutely! These muffins freeze very well. Once they have cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

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