These Lavender Lemon Delight Muffins are a refreshing twist on the classic muffin, combining the floral notes of lavender with the zesty brightness of lemon.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with paper liners.
Using paper liners makes cleanup easier and gives the muffins a professional look.
In a food processor, combine the sugar and dried lavender. Pulse until the lavender is finely ground and mixed with the sugar.
Adjust the lavender quantity to your taste preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
Sift the lavender sugar into a mixing bowl to remove any larger pieces of lavender.
Sifting ensures a smooth texture in the muffins.
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the lavender sugar. Whisk together until well combined.
Whisking aerates the flour, making the muffins lighter.
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let it sit for a minute to curdle slightly.
The curdled milk acts as a buttermilk substitute, adding tenderness to the muffins.
Lightly beat the egg in a separate bowl, then whisk in the melted butter and the milk mixture.
Ensure the melted butter is not too hot to prevent cooking the egg.
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
Overmixing can make the muffins dense; mix until you no longer see dry flour.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
Use an ice cream scoop for even portions.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking for even cooking.
Let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling on a wire rack prevents the muffins from becoming soggy.
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and lemon zest for the topping.
The lemon zest adds a burst of fresh flavor to the topping.
Dip the tops of the muffins in melted butter, then into the sugar mixture.
Ensure the muffins are slightly warm for better adherence of the topping.
Serve the muffins warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Pair with a hot beverage for a delightful treat.
