I wanted a simple recipe, with a lovely lemon and vanilla aroma, but not too sweet. Soft, easy-to-make little cakes that you'd want to share… or keep all to yourself with a coffee. I adjusted the quantities to make 12 perfectly sized muffins, and I opted for a buttercream and cream cheese frosting, which is milder and more balanced. The result: light, fresh, and just indulgent enough muffins. It's the kind of recipe you make again and again without hesitation, because it simply works. -- Marilyn
| Summary | |
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| 🔍 Information | Details |
| ⏱️ Preparation time | 15 minutes |
| 🍳 Cooking time | 18 to 22 minutes |
| ⏲️ Total time | 35 to 40 minutes |
| 🔧 Difficulty level | Easy |
| 🍽️ Portions | 12 muffins |
| 🔥 Calories (approx.) | ≈ 280 per muffin (without creaming) |
| Ingredients – Muffins |
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| Ingredients – Lemon Cream |
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| Instructions |
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Tips for moist muffins and frosting that holds its shape
• Mix just enough: stop as soon as the flour is incorporated. Overmixing will result in denser muffins.
• Zest adds flavor without softening the dough (or creaming). To intensify the lemon flavor, add zest before adding more juice.
• Fill the molds ¾ full: this gives a nice shape without overflowing.
• Start cooking at 18 minutes and check: a toothpick should come out clean, with a few crumbs (no dough).
• For creaming, the mixer makes all the difference : smoother, airier texture, better hold.
• If the cream is too soft : 10 to 15 minutes in the fridge, then a final whizz with the mixer.
• Frost only when the muffins are completely cooled , otherwise the frosting will slide off.
| Nutritional Information per Serving | |
|---|---|
| Nutrient | Quantity |
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Proteins | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Sugars | 18 g |
| Lipids | 12 g |
| Health rating |
7.5/10 Soft, moderately sweet, lovely lemony freshness. |
| Did you know that? | |
| 🧠 The brain naturally associates certain smells with a feeling of mental clarity | |
| ✨ Sweet and tangy flavors are often perceived as lighter, even before tasting. | |
| 🌿 In many cultures, fresh scents are associated with balance and renewal | |