Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds. Quick and easy to make in the air fryer, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a refreshing treat anytime.

Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins are a bright, zesty treat that’s soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden.

The combination of fresh lemon flavor and crunchy poppy seeds makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.

Quick to prepare in the air fryer, these muffins are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.

Easy, flavorful, and family-friendly, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for lemon lovers.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Bright lemon flavor: Refreshing and naturally sweet in every bite.
• Soft and fluffy: Perfect texture thanks to the air fryer.
• Crunchy poppy seeds: Add a delightful texture and nutty flavor.
• Quick and easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or light desserts.

If you are becoming addicted to baking in your Air Fryer, some of my favorite Air Fryer Muffin Recipes are AIR FRYER BERRY CREAM MUFFINS, AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S BANANA BREAD MUFFINS, AIR FRYER BLUEBERRY MUFFIN MUG CAKE, and AIR FRYER BLUEBERRY MIX MUFFINS.

Ingredients Needed

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens muffins and helps create a tender crumb
• Lemon Zest: Adds bright, citrusy flavor and refreshing aroma
• Lemon Juice: Provides tangy flavor and enhances overall lemon taste
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure and base of the muffin batter
• Baking Powder: Helps muffins rise and become light and fluffy
• Baking Soda: Aids in leavening and browning during baking
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall muffin flavor
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and tenderizes muffins for soft texture
• Egg: Binds ingredients and provides structure and richness
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor with warm, sweet vanilla notes
• Butter: Adds richness, flavor, and tenderizes the muffin batter
• Poppy Seeds: Provide crunch and a nutty, slightly sweet texture

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Glaze Muffins: Drizzle a simple lemon-juice and powdered sugar glaze over cooled muffins for extra sweetness and tang.
• Blueberry Lemon Muffins: Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Almond Lemon Muffins: Add a teaspoon of almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
• Coconut Lemon Muffins: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
• Low-Carb/Keto Version: Replace all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour and use a keto-friendly sweetener.
• Zesty Lemon Poppy Seed Cupcakes: Bake in standard cupcake liners and top with a light cream cheese frosting.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a naturally soft, tender muffin.

How To Make Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Step One: In a small mixing bowl, mix the sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt well.

Step Two: Mix the sour cream, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter in another mixing bowl.  Fold the dry ingredient into the wet ingredients. Then fold in the poppy seeds.

Step Three: Grease a mini muffin tin with olive oil or line with mini paper liners. Pour the batter into each cup about three-quarters full. Place the muffin tin in the air fryer and cook at air fryer temperature of 320 degrees F (160°C) and set cook time for 12-15 minutes.

Step Four: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are done. If not, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove muffins from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lemons: Fresh zest and juice give the muffins the brightest flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can make muffins dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Check your air fryer: Cooking times vary by model, so monitor the first batch closely.
• Fill muffin cups properly: About three-quarters full ensures even rising without overflow.
• Optional flavor boosts: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or a light glaze for extra sweetness.

Storing Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days; warm slightly before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before eating.

Air Fryer Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen lemons or bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemons are best for zest and juice, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I bake these muffins in a conventional oven? Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-18 minutes using a greased or lined mini muffin tin.

How do I know when muffins are done? Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add other flavorings or mix-ins? Yes, a teaspoon of vanilla, a light glaze, or extra zest can enhance flavor.

How should I store leftover muffins? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free? Yes, substitute plant-based milk and coconut oil for butter or regular milk.

More Air Fryer Muffin Recipes

• AIR FRYER BLUEBERRY MUFFIN MUG CAKE
• AIR FRYER COPYCAT PANERA WILD BLUEBERRY MUFFINS
• EASY AIR FRYER BRAN MUFFINS
• AIR FRYER CINNAMON SUGAR DONUT MUFFINS
• AIR FRYER BANANA CHOCOLATE CHIP MUFFINS

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