Name: Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon poppy seeds; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 zest lemons; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; ½ cup Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat, at room temperature); ½ cup vegetable oil; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ¼ cup milk, at room temperature; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 14 reviews

There is something truly irresistible about the bright, tangy flavor of lemon paired with the gentle crunch of poppy seeds, and when combined with the creamy richness of Greek yogurt, you get a muffin that’s fluffy, moist, and bursting with sunshine. The Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe is a perfect treat whether you’re starting your morning or enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up. These muffins are easy to bake, wonderfully flavorful, and dressed up with a sweet-tart lemon glaze that makes every bite a little celebration in your mouth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients. The largest bowl on the left is filled with light beige flour with a spoon inside. Next to it are three small white bowls holding black poppy seeds, white salt, and brown cinnamon powder. A bigger bowl at the center holds smooth white yogurt. Two whole yellow lemons are placed on the upper right. A clear glass measuring cup with yellow oil and a glass of white milk appear nearby. Below, a small bowl contains two brown eggs, and another white bowl holds white powdered sugar. A small glass bowl with dark vanilla extract sits close to the eggs. Various kitchen tools, including a yellow spatula, sifter, and whisk, are arranged around the ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity: wholesome pantry staples come together with fresh lemon to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring that your muffins are fluffy, tender, and exploding with zesty goodness.

All-purpose flour: The foundation for light and tender muffins, providing structure without heaviness.
Poppy seeds: Tiny bursts of crunch that add a subtle nutty flavor and delightful texture contrast.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help your muffins rise perfectly, giving them that airy fluffiness.
Salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a moist crumb when combined with the lemon zest.
Lemons (zest and juice): Deliver a fresh, vibrant brightness that is the star of the show in both the batter and the glaze.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide richness for a tender crumb.
Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, making the muffins incredibly moist and soft.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins tender and soft, enhancing the moist texture.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth, rounding out the citrus notes.
Milk: Helps thin the batter slightly for the perfect consistency.
Powdered sugar: The base for the lemon glaze that crowns these muffins with a sweet, glossy finish.

How to Make Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your baking equipment and dry ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin pan with liners or lightly greasing it to avoid any sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix ensures that your muffins will have the perfect rise and hold their structure while keeping that lovely crunch from the poppy seeds evenly distributed.

Step 2: Infuse your sugar with lemon zest and whisk the eggs

One of the secrets to really bursting the lemon flavor throughout the muffins is rubbing the lemon zest into the granulated sugar using your fingers. This step releases the aromatic oils in the zest and infuses the sugar with fresh citrus magic. Add the eggs next and whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and fragrant, setting a bright foundation for the rest of the batter.

Step 3: Add Greek yogurt, oil, lemon juice, and vanilla

Stir in the Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and pure vanilla extract. These ingredients bring moisture, richness, and that unmistakable tang that makes this recipe stand out. Mixing them thoroughly ensures a luscious batter that bakes into moist and tender muffins.

Step 4: Combine dry and wet ingredients alternating with milk

It’s important to fold your dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture in batches, alternating with the milk. Starting and ending with the dry ingredients helps maintain the right balance of moisture and prevents the batter from becoming too dense. Stir just until combined—overmixing can make the muffins tough, so resist the urge to keep stirring!

Step 5: Bake to golden perfection

Scoop the batter evenly into your prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow space for the muffins to rise. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Letting the muffins cool in the pan briefly before transferring them to a wire rack ensures they finish setting up without becoming soggy.

Step 6: Whisk and drizzle the lemon glaze

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice if you want a thinner glaze. Drizzle this glossy glaze over the completely cooled muffins to add that final touch of sweetness and zing that makes these Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe truly memorable.

How to Serve Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe

The image shows six orange paper muffin liners placed in a light gray muffin tray, each filled with pale yellow batter that has small black poppy seeds and tiny pieces of lemon zest mixed in. The batter fills each liner about three-quarters full and has a smooth but slightly lumpy texture. On the right side, a woman's hand is pouring more batter into one of the liners. The tray is resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, fresh lemon zest sprinkled on top right after glazing adds a pop of color and an extra hit of bright citrus aroma. You can also dot the muffins with a few extra poppy seeds or add a small mint leaf for a fresh, visual contrast.

Side Dishes

These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee, making them an excellent choice for breakfast or afternoon tea. For a more substantial snack, serve them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a creamy vanilla yogurt parfait to complement the lemony flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Create a delightful brunch spread by stacking these muffins on a rustic wooden board garnished with lemon wedges and sprigs of rosemary. You can also slice the muffins in half and spread a bit of lemon curd inside for an extra burst of citrus love. Offering a small dish of extra glaze beside the muffins lets guests layer on more lemony sweetness if they please.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh and moist. Avoid refrigeration for short-term storage as it can dry out the muffins.

Freezing

These Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe freeze beautifully. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to two months, ready to enjoy after a quick thaw.

Reheating

To enjoy your muffins warm, unwrap and microwave them for about 15 to 20 seconds, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This will revive the soft texture and fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, especially when paired with a drizzle of extra glaze or a smear of butter.

FAQs

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but opt for full-fat plain yogurt for the best texture and flavor. Greek yogurt yields a thicker, richer batter, so your muffins might be slightly less moist if you switch to regular yogurt.

How can I make these muffins vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based yogurt and milk substitute. Vegetable oil works well as is in vegan baking.

Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Limes can provide a similar zing, though the flavor will be slightly different. Orange zest and juice work nicely if you prefer a sweeter and less tart citrus note.

What is the role of the lemon glaze?

The lemon glaze adds a sweet and tangy finishing touch that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin crumb. It enhances the overall lemon flavor while giving the muffins a pretty, glossy appearance.

How do I prevent the muffins from drying out?

Ensuring you don’t overbake and storing them properly in an airtight container are key steps. The Greek yogurt and oil in the batter help keep them moist, but proper timing during baking is essential.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Greek Yogurt Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze Recipe, it will become one of your new favorite go-to recipes for breakfasts, snacks, or even a light dessert. They’re easy to make, impressive to serve, and a delight to eat. Grab your lemons and get baking—you’re about to fill your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and your heart with joy from every bright, flavorful bite!