These Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion! Bursting with zesty lemon flavor, they are fluffy and incredibly moist, boasting impressive bakery-style muffin tops. Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert. With a delightful crumb topping and optional pearl sugar, these muffins are sure to impress your family and friends.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Muffins
- For the Topping
- For the Glaze
- How to Make Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Step 1: Flavor the Sugar for Muffin Batter
- Step 2: Make Vegan Buttermilk
- Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Make the Batter
- Step 6: Rest the Batter (Optional)
- Step 7: Prepare Oven/Pan
- Step 8: Make Crumb Topping
- Step 9: Assemble Muffins
- Step 10: Bake
- Step 11: Make Glaze
- Step12: Storage
- How to Serve Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Enjoy with Spreads
- Drizzle with Icing
- Accompany with Beverages
- How to Perfect Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Best Side Dishes for Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Reheating Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I ensure my Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins are fluffy?
- Can I use gluten-free flour?
- How do I store leftover muffins?
- What can I add to customize my Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins?
- Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a refreshing taste.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these muffins warm out of the oven or at room temperature; they fit any occasion.
- Perfectly Moist: Thanks to vegan yogurt and olive oil, each muffin is soft and moist without any dairy.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter, making it light and fluffy.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients gently without overmixing, ensuring moist muffins.
- Muffin tray: Provides shape and structure while baking, resulting in beautifully rounded tops.
Ingredients
These are the best vegan lemon muffins you will try! Zesty, fluffy, and moist, with huge bakery-style muffin tops and crunchy pearl sugar and lemon crumb topping. This recipe will yield 8 large bakery-style muffins or 10-12 smaller muffins.
For the Muffins
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons lemon zest
- 60 ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 180 ml soy milk
- 120 ml olive oil
- 120 g vegan Greek-style yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For the Topping
- 30 g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 30 g all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons pearl sugar (optional)
For the Glaze
- 40 g powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
How to Make Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
Step 1: Flavor the Sugar for Muffin Batter
Add the granulated sugar and lemon zest to a large mixing bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the zest into the sugar until it feels wet. This step infuses the sugar with lemon flavor.
Step 2: Make Vegan Buttermilk
In a jug, mix together soy milk and lemon juice. Set this mixture aside for a few minutes until it curdles slightly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
To your flavored sugar bowl, add olive oil, vegan Greek-style yogurt, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Then add the vegan buttermilk mixture and whisk again until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt into a separate bowl. Whisk them together to ensure an even mix.
Step 5: Make the Batter
Gently fold half of the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Add in the remaining dry ingredients and fold until just combined—be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay!
Step 6: Rest the Batter (Optional)
Letting your batter rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes can help achieve those high muffin tops that everyone loves.
Step 7: Prepare Oven/Pan
Preheat your oven to fan-forced at 190°C(375°F) or conventional at 210°C(410°F). Line two muffin trays with muffin liners while leaving gaps between them since you’ll be filling every second cavity.
Step 8: Make Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, rub together granulated sugar with fresh lemon zest until fragrant. Add in flour followed by vegan butter. Mix until you achieve a crumb-like consistency.
Step 9: Assemble Muffins
Using an ice cream scoop or large spoon, fill each muffin liner with batter up to the top. Sprinkle with crumb topping and pearl sugar if desired.
Step 10: Bake
Bake at fan-forced temperature of 190°C/375°F or conventional temperature at210°C/410°F for first five minutes. Lower temperature down to fan-forced at170°C/340°F or conventional at190°C/375°F for an additional fifteen minutes. Let cool briefly before transferring muffins to wire rack.
Step 11: Make Glaze
Combine powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Adjust thickness as preferred by adding more powdered sugar if needed.
Step12: Storage
Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for up to a week. If frozen, let them defrost before serving!
Enjoy your freshly baked Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!
How to Serve Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a delightful snack. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your muffin experience.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve the muffins with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
- Sliced Bananas: The creaminess of bananas complements the zesty lemon flavor beautifully.
Enjoy with Spreads
- Vegan Butter: Spread a layer of vegan butter on warm muffins for extra richness and moisture.
- Lemon Curd: A dollop of vegan lemon curd adds an additional tangy kick that enhances the muffin’s flavor profile.
Drizzle with Icing
- Glaze: Drizzle the prepared lemon glaze over the muffins just before serving for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, serve with pure maple syrup as a dipping option.
Accompany with Beverages
- Herbal Tea: A cup of chamomile or peppermint tea pairs well, balancing the muffin’s flavors.
- Coffee: A rich coffee complements the zesty muffins perfectly, making it an ideal brunch option.

How to Perfect Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
To ensure your Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins turn out perfectly fluffy and flavorful, consider these helpful tips.
- Flavoring Sugar: Rub lemon zest into sugar thoroughly to release essential oils, enhancing lemon flavor in the muffins.
- Check Baking Powder Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for maximum rise; expired baking powder can lead to dense muffins.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the muffins tough.
- Resting Time Matters: Allowing the batter to rest can promote higher muffin tops and improve texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality olive oil and fresh lemons for optimal taste and moisture in your muffins.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your muffins in the oven; every oven is different. They should be golden brown when done.
Best Side Dishes for Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their bright flavor. Here are some great options:
- Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with granola and fruits provides a nutritious balance.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread brings a savory contrast to sweet muffins.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer vegan yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy treat that pairs well with muffins.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This exciting dish adds texture and nutritional value while being deliciously creamy.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness that complements the zesty lemon flavor.
- Granola Bars: Crunchy homemade granola bars provide a wholesome snack option alongside your muffins.
- Coconut Macaroons: These sweet treats add a chewy texture to your brunch spread without overshadowing lemon flavors.
- Nut Mixes: A handful of spiced or candied nuts adds crunch and protein, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch for:
- Using old ingredients: Expired baking powder or flour can lead to dense muffins. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create tough muffins. Aim for a few gentle folds until just combined for fluffy results.
- Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the texture. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
- Skipping the resting period: Not letting the batter rest may result in less height. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes to promote those bakery-style tops.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature affects cooking time and muffin rise. Always preheat your oven properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Let them come to room temperature after refrigeration before serving.
Freezing Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Place muffins in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
Reheating Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 170°C (340°F) and warm the muffins for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins:
How do I ensure my Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins are fluffy?
Fluffy muffins require gentle mixing and a proper resting time before baking. This helps improve texture and height.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it is suitable for baking.
How do I store leftover muffins?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
What can I add to customize my Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins?
Consider adding blueberries, poppy seeds, or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins stay fresh for several days, making them great for meal prep or special occasions.
Final Thoughts
These Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a breakfast treat or dessert, they offer a delightful zesty flavor that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make them your own!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintMoist Vegan Lemon Muffins
Indulge in the delightful taste of Moist Vegan Lemon Muffins, perfect for any occasion. These fluffy treats are bursting with zesty lemon flavor, thanks to fresh lemon juice and zest, ensuring a refreshing experience with every bite. With their impressive bakery-style tops and optional crunchy pearl sugar topping, these muffins are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or at room temperature, they make an excellent breakfast, snack, or dessert. Plus, they’re easy to make, allowing bakers of all skill levels to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 large muffins 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons lemon zest
- 60 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 180 ml soy milk
- 120 ml olive oil
- 120 g vegan Greek-style yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 300 g all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to fan-forced at 190°C (375°F) or conventional at 210°C (410°F). Line muffin trays with liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar and lemon zest; rub together until fragrant.
- In a jug, mix soy milk and lemon juice to create vegan buttermilk; set aside.
- Add olive oil, vegan yogurt, and vanilla extract to the flavored sugar; whisk until combined.
- Combine dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, and sea salt – in a separate bowl.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Optionally let the batter rest for 30 minutes for taller muffins.
- Fill muffin liners with batter and sprinkle with crumb topping if desired.
- Bake for 5 minutes at high temperature, then lower it to bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool briefly before transferring muffins to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





