Lemon Muffins with Dried Cherries 🍋🍒

These soft and fluffy lemon muffins are bursting with fresh lemon flavor and delicious pieces of dried cherries. The combination of tangy lemon, sweet cherries, and a tender muffin texture makes this recipe perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a simple homemade dessert.

With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, these muffins are a wonderful treat to make whenever you’re craving something sweet and homemade.

📝 Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar or vanilla extract
• 120 g granulated sugar (approximately ½ cup + 1 tbsp)
• 80 g vegetable oil (approximately ⅓ cup)
• 150 ml plain yogurt (approximately ⅔ cup)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 fresh lemon
• 260 g all-purpose flour (approximately 2 cups)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 50 g dried cherry pieces (approximately ⅓ cup)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and vanilla sugar or vanilla extract.
3. Add the granulated sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Pour in the vegetable oil and plain yogurt, then mix gently.
5. Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
6. Gradually add the all-purpose flour in batches, mixing after each addition.
7. Add the baking powder and mix until you have a smooth, elastic batter.
8. Gently fold in the dried cherry pieces.
9. Divide the batter evenly among muffin molds.
10. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 30–35 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the muffins to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

💡 Tips for Perfect Lemon Muffins

• Add the flour gradually to make the batter easier to mix and prevent overmixing.
• Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best natural lemon flavor.
• Mix the batter gently once the flour is added to keep the muffins soft and tender.
• Make sure the dried cherries are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
• Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so check the muffins with a toothpick before removing them.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

Yes, but fresh cherries contain more moisture and may slightly change the texture and baking time. Dried cherries are recommended for the recipe as written.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla sugar?

Absolutely. Either vanilla sugar or vanilla extract works well in this recipe.

Can I replace the yogurt?

Plain yogurt is best for maintaining the soft texture, but you can use another similar plain, unsweetened yogurt if needed.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.

How should I store these muffins?

Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the best appearance.