Lemon Curd Muffins

Lemon Curd Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the tangy goodness of homemade lemon curd with a soft, fluffy muffin base. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, these muffins are truly irresistible for lemon lovers. The unique flavor profile and the sweet glaze on top make them a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates an uplifting taste that brightens your day.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these muffins fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious muffins in no time.
• Homemade Goodness: The addition of homemade lemon curd elevates these muffins, offering a burst of flavor that store-bought options can’t match.
• Perfectly Sweet: The sweet glaze adds just the right touch to balance out the tartness of the lemon.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Lemon Curd Muffins, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Paper liners
• Double boiler (or heatproof bowl over a pot)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Ensures even cooking and helps shape your muffins perfectly.
• Double boiler: Provides gentle heat for making lemon curd without burning it.
• Silicone spatula: Great for scraping down sides and mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging your bowls.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Curd

• 3 egg yolks
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 6 Tablespoons sugar
• ¼ cup butter-cold and cut in pieces

For the Muffin Batter

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter-melted
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter-room temperature
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Grated zest from 1 lemon
• 2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice

For the Glaze

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 Tablespoons milk or cream

this recipe

How to Make Lemon Curd Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Make lemon curd ahead, because it takes time to cool and set completely. I recommend cooking the lemon curd in a double boiler because mixing these ingredients over direct heat quickly leads to burning.
1. Whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the top pot of your double boiler.
2. Place over simmering water and stir constantly with a silicone spatula until thickened (about 10 minutes). If it isn’t thickening, increase heat while whisking continuously.
3. Remove from heat; add butter and whisk until melted.
4. Pour curd into a jar or bowl; cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-count muffin pan with paper liners.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, stir together:
– Flour
– Baking powder
– Baking soda
– Salt

Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat room temperature butter on high speed until smooth (about 1 minute).
2. Add sugar; cream together until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time; mix well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.

Step 5: Combine All Mixtures

Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups filling them about halfway full.

Step 7: Add Lemon Curd

Drop about a tablespoon of prepared lemon curd into each muffin’s center; cover with another thin layer of muffin batter until cups are about three-quarters full.

Step 8: Top with Streusel Crumb

Generously top each muffin with streusel crumb topping if desired and gently press it into place.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for about 25 minutes or until muffins are set and golden brown on top.

Step 10: Make the Glaze

To prepare glaze:
1. Stir powdered sugar with milk (or cream).
2. Drizzle over cooled muffins once they are out of the oven. Adjust thickness as needed by adding more liquid or powdered sugar.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Curd Muffins!

How to Serve Lemon Curd Muffins

Lemon Curd Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins are sure to impress lemon lovers. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair your muffins with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the lemon curd perfectly.

Drizzled with Honey

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling honey over the top. This adds a rich flavor that balances the tanginess of the lemon.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve warm muffins with a dollop of whipped cream on top. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the muffin’s crumb.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include these muffins in a brunch buffet alongside other pastries and fresh fruit. They add a delightful citrus note to your spread.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your muffins with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm beverages complement the zesty flavor of the lemon curd muffins.

Stored as Snacks

• Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container for quick snacks throughout the week. They stay moist and flavorful for days.

How to Perfect Lemon Curd Muffins

Perfecting Lemon Curd Muffins takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your muffins turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and lemons make a significant difference in flavor and texture, ensuring your muffins taste their best.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy; this helps achieve even baking.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving. This helps set the texture and enhances the flavors.
• Experiment with Zest: Try adding more lemon zest for an extra punch of citrus flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Curd Muffins

Lemon Curd Muffins can be paired with various side dishes to create a balanced meal or snack time treat. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing side that complements the muffin’s flavor.
2. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings freshness and color to your plate, enhancing the citrus notes of the muffins.
3. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Serve cottage cheese topped with chia seeds or nuts for added protein, balancing out the sweetness of the muffins.
4. Scrambled Eggs: Lightly scrambled eggs provide protein and richness that pairs well with lemon-flavored treats.
5. Smoothie: A light berry smoothie can enhance breakfast or brunch, adding vitamins without overpowering the muffin’s flavor.
6. Avocado Toast: A slice of avocado toast adds healthy fats and savory flavors that contrast nicely with sweet lemon curd muffins.
7. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like goat cheese or brie; their creaminess will pair wonderfully with the tangy lemon curd.
8. Toast with Jam: Offer additional toast topped with different fruit jams for guests who enjoy variety along with their muffin experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Curd Muffins, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Using room temperature butter: Cold butter is crucial for creating the right texture in muffins. Make sure your butter is cold and cut into pieces before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Combine ingredients just until they are incorporated to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the lemon curd: The lemon curd is what makes these muffins special. Don’t skip this step; it adds both flavor and moisture.
• Filling muffin cups too full: Overfilling can cause muffins to overflow. Fill each cup about ¾ full for the perfect rise without mess.
• Not checking doneness: Always check your muffins a few minutes before the end of baking time. Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Lemon Curd Muffins in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lemon Curd Muffins

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Lemon Curd Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place muffins on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for about 15-20 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Reheat muffins in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently. This keeps them moist and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought lemon curd for Lemon Curd Muffins?

Yes, you can use store-bought lemon curd if you’re short on time. However, homemade lemon curd offers superior flavor and freshness.

How do I make my muffins even more lemony?

To enhance the lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or a bit more fresh lemon juice into your batter before baking.

What is the best way to enjoy Lemon Curd Muffins?

These muffins are delightful as breakfast treats or desserts. Serve them warm with a cup of tea or coffee for an enjoyable experience!

Can I customize the topping for my Lemon Curd Muffins?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different toppings such as nuts, coconut flakes, or even chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Lemon Curd Muffins?

The total time is around 55 minutes, including preparation and baking time, making them a relatively quick treat!

Final Thoughts

Lemon Curd Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their bright lemon flavor paired with the sweet glaze makes them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or even switch up the citrus flavors! Try this recipe today and indulge in the delightful taste of homemade goodness!

Print

Lemon Curd Muffins

---

• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 muffins

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lemon Curd Muffins are a delightful blend of zesty lemon flavor and fluffy muffin texture, perfect for any time of day. These muffins feature a luscious homemade lemon curd center that adds a refreshing burst of tanginess, while a sweet glaze on top balances the tartness beautifully. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these treats are sure to impress anyone who loves citrus desserts. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Enjoy them warm with coffee or tea, or serve them at your next gathering to brighten everyone’s day.

---

Ingredients

• For the Lemon Curd: egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, butter
• For the Muffin Batter: all-purpose flour, sugar, brown sugar, unsalted butter, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract
• For the Glaze: powdered sugar, milk or cream

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Lemon Curd: In a double boiler, whisk egg yolks with sugar and lemon juice until thickened (about 10 minutes). Add butter and whisk until melted. Cool.
2. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F and line a muffin pan with paper liners.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In one bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugars until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by Greek yogurt and lemon components.
5. Combine Mixtures: Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients gently until just combined.
6. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon batter into cups about halfway full. Add lemon curd in the center and top with more batter.
7. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.
8. Make Glaze: Stir powdered sugar with milk to desired consistency; drizzle over cooled muffins.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 muffin (75g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Use fresh lemons for optimal flavor. Consider adding poppy seeds for added texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.