Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins

Name: Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the bright flavors of Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins, a perfect treat for any time of day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-03T11:10:29.386Z

These Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the refreshing tang of lemon, making them an irresistible snack or breakfast option. The aroma of baking bananas and lemon will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor enhances the sweetness of bananas
Moist and fluffy texture that's hard to resist
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins combine the sweet, familiar taste of ripe bananas with the bright, tangy notes of fresh lemon. This unique fusion creates a delightful balance that elevates the classic muffin experience. Whether you’re a banana bread lover or a lemon enthusiast, this recipe caters to both cravings, making it a standout in any bakery lineup.

The lemon zest adds a refreshing layer of flavor, while the bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture. This combination ensures that each muffin is not only delicious but also bursting with vibrant taste. Perfect for breakfast or as a midday snack, these muffins are sure to brighten your day.

A Versatile Treat for All Occasions

These muffins are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. Serve them warm for breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or tea, and you'll have a delightful start to your day. They also make an excellent snack for kids after school or a light dessert option for gatherings.

With their moist texture and irresistible flavor, Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins are perfect for sharing. Bake a batch for brunch, pack them in lunch boxes, or enjoy them during a cozy evening at home. No matter when or how you choose to enjoy them, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time, be sure to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your muffins will be. Look for bananas with brown spots, as they indicate optimal ripeness. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can quickly ripen them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes.

Additionally, when mixing your batter, avoid overmixing. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated with the wet; this will help maintain the muffins' fluffy texture. Using a light hand during this stage will yield tender muffins that are moist and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix the ingredients well for the perfect muffin batter!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fill Muffin Tins

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked muffins with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Muffins

To keep your Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter their texture.

For longer storage, these muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize your Zesty Lemon Banana Muffins to suit your taste. Adding chocolate chips can create a delightful contrast to the lemon's tanginess, making for an indulgent treat. Alternatively, consider mixing in nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.

If you're looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour or reduce the sugar slightly. Incorporating oats can also add texture and enhance the nutritional value of your muffins, making them a wholesome option for breakfast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How do I store leftover muffins?

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! These muffins freeze well. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mix as an egg substitute in this recipe.