These muffins are a refreshing twist on a classic, combining zesty lemon and crunchy poppy seeds with the subtle sweetness of zucchini. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they’re moist, flavorful, and easy to make.
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and eggs until the mixture is smooth and a bit fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes. Next, add the oil, applesauce, lemon zest, vanilla, and lemon extract, mixing everything until it’s well combined.
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir just until everything is incorporated. Fold in the shredded zucchini and poppy seeds gently.
Spoon the batter into the lined muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full. If you have any empty cups, fill those with water to help the muffins bake evenly. Pop the tin in the oven and bake for 17 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool a bit before enjoying!
- Use freshly grated zucchini and gently squeeze out excess moisture to keep the batter from becoming too wet.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter; stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the muffins tender.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent them from sticking or breaking.
These muffins are a perfect balance of bright lemon flavor and subtle crunch from the poppy seeds. Adding zucchini makes them moist and adds a gentle vegetable sweetness, making them a healthier treat you can enjoy any time of day.
These muffins are delicious served warm with a pat of butter or a light spread of cream cheese. They also pair well with a cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing morning or afternoon snack.
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
