Banana Lemon Muffins with Zest
Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes
Delightful and zesty, these Banana Lemon Muffins are the perfect breakfast treat or snack for any time of the day.
These Banana Lemon Muffins with Zest combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the refreshing tang of lemon, creating a delightful balance that is sure to please your taste buds. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor paired with sweet bananas
- Moist texture that keeps you coming back for more
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up a batch
The Perfect Breakfast Option
Mornings can be hectic, and finding a breakfast option that is both delicious and nutritious is essential. These Banana Lemon Muffins fit the bill perfectly. With their delightful blend of sweet bananas and bright lemon zest, they provide a refreshing start to your day. Packed with flavor and moisture, they are sure to satisfy your morning cravings without weighing you down.
What makes these muffins an excellent choice for breakfast is their versatility. Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice, they complement any morning beverage beautifully. Plus, they are easy to prepare in advance, making them a convenient grab-and-go option for busy weekdays.
A Snack for Anytime
These Banana Lemon Muffins aren't just for breakfast; they make a fantastic snack at any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a mid-morning pick-me-up, an afternoon treat, or a post-dinner dessert, these muffins deliver a delightful burst of flavor. The combination of sweet and citrusy notes makes each bite a refreshing experience.
Moreover, these muffins are a healthier alternative to many store-bought snacks. Made with simple ingredients and without artificial additives, they provide a wholesome option that you can feel good about. They also freeze well, allowing you to batch bake and enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.
Customizing Your Muffins
One of the best things about baking is the ability to customize your recipes according to your preferences. These Banana Lemon Muffins are no exception. You can easily incorporate your favorite add-ins, such as chocolate chips, walnuts, or dried cranberries, to elevate the flavor profile even further. Experimenting with different ingredients can make each batch unique and exciting.
If you prefer a less sweet muffin, consider reducing the sugar slightly or using a sugar substitute. Alternatively, for a richer taste, you could add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the muffins to your personal taste.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your muffins:
Muffin Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to bake your muffins:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Add Sugar and Egg
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
Incorporate Flour
Slowly add the flour to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake the Muffins
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Your muffins are now ready to enjoy!
Storing Your Muffins
To keep your Banana Lemon Muffins fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Simply wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. This will help retain their moist texture and delightful flavor. Don't forget that a quick reheat in the oven can also revive their freshly-baked taste.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The primary ingredients in these Banana Lemon Muffins not only contribute to their delicious taste but also offer various health benefits. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which is vital for heart health and muscle function. They also provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a sense of fullness, making them a great addition to any diet.
Lemons, on the other hand, are packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps improve skin health. The zest in the muffins not only adds flavor but also contains essential oils that can have mood-boosting properties. Together, these ingredients create a treat that is both enjoyable and beneficial to your overall well-being.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How do I store leftover muffins?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of butter?
You can use vegetable oil or applesauce as a substitute for butter.
Banana Lemon Muffins with Zest
Delightful and zesty, these Banana Lemon Muffins are the perfect breakfast treat or snack for any time of the day.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Everyday Dessert Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 muffins
What You'll Need
Muffin Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.
Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
Slowly add the flour to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 2g