The combination of bright lemon flavor and the chewy sweetness of dates makes these muffins a unique treat. They’re great for breakfast, afternoon tea, or just a snack when you need a quick pick-me-up. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, these muffins offer the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. Prepare to be amazed by how good these simple ingredients come together!
Ingredients for Healthier Lemon Date Muffins
Muffins:
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65 g) packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp (5 g) baking powder
- 1 tsp (5 g) baking soda
- Pinch of salt (a pinch is about 0.5 g)
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) dairy sour cream
- 3/4 cup (120 g) pre-cut dates
- 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, melted
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) lemon juice
- 1 tbsp (6 g) lemon zest
- 1 large egg
Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup (125 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp (5 g) soft margarine
- Lemon juice (to taste)
Instructions for Healthier Lemon Date Muffins
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and spray the liners with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- In another medium-sized bowl, combine the wet ingredients: sour cream, melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and egg. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until combined. The batter will be somewhat dough-like in texture.
- Divide the batter into equal portions (dividing it into halves and then halves again will help with even distribution).
- Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each paper liner to the top.
- Bake the muffins for 25 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once done, test for doneness using a toothpick. Allow the muffins to cool completely on a wire rack.
- These muffins are delicious as they are, but if you’d like, prepare the glaze.
- To make the glaze, combine the powdered sugar, margarine, and enough lemon juice to create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze on top of the cooled muffins.
Final Thoughts
These lemon date muffins offer a delightful combination of citrusy zest and the natural sweetness of dates. They’re a fantastic option for breakfast or an afternoon snack, and with the optional lemon glaze, they become an even more irresistible treat. Simple to make, yet packed with flavor, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or stored for a later snack — they’re always a hit!
