Limoncello Lemon Muffins

Name: Limoncello Lemon Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur; Zest of 1 large lemon; Juice of 1 large lemon; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons limoncello; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection

I absolutely adore baking these Limoncello Lemon Muffins! The combination of zesty lemon and the unique flavor of limoncello creates an irresistible treat that brightens up any morning. Each bite is a burst of citrus goodness, and the fluffy texture makes them a delight with coffee or tea. I love how simple the recipe is, yet it feels like a special indulgence. Whether for a weekend brunch or just a cozy snack, these muffins are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them.

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:25:35.030Z

When I first decided to experiment with lemon and limoncello in my muffin recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by the delightful outcome. The addition of limoncello not only enhances the lemon flavor but also adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tartness beautifully. I found that using fresh lemon zest and juice made a noticeable difference in the overall taste, giving the muffins a fresh and vibrant character.

Another tip I discovered is to let the muffins cool slightly before adding a sweet limoncello glaze on top. This allows the glaze to set perfectly, creating a beautiful finish and a mouthwatering sweetness that complements the muffins wonderfully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
Bright and tangy lemon flavor balanced with limoncello sweetness
Soft, fluffy texture that's perfect for breakfast or dessert
A delightful twist on traditional muffins, perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Lemon Flavor

The combination of lemon juice and zest is essential in achieving a vibrant flavor profile for these muffins. The zest, made from the outer peel, contains concentrated essential oils that bring a fresh citrus aroma. When measuring the zest, make sure to use a fine grater and only take the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. This will enhance the overall lemon flavor without any bitter notes.

Incorporating limoncello liqueur elevates the muffins by adding a sweet yet tangy depth that complements the lemon. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the limoncello with extra lemon juice mixed with a bit of sugar syrup. This modification retains the zingy flavor while keeping the muffins family-friendly.

Achieving the Ideal Texture

The flour-to-liquid ratio is crucial for achieving that perfect fluffy muffin texture. Overmixing the batter can result in dense, chewy muffins because it develops the gluten in the flour. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no dry flour—lumps are okay! This is a key tip I’ve learned to ensure a light and tender crumb.

Using buttermilk in the recipe not only adds moisture but also reacts with the baking soda to create an airy lift. If you run out of buttermilk, a quick substitute is mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice; let it sit for about 10 minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Limoncello Lemon Muffins

Muffin Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
Zest of 1 large lemon
Juice of 1 large lemon
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Limoncello Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons limoncello
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it with cooking spray.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the buttermilk, limoncello, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

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 over mix.

Bake

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare Limoncello Glaze

While the muffins are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, limoncello, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Glaze the Muffins

Once the muffins are out of the oven, let them cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle the limoncello glaze over the warm muffins.

Enjoy these delicious Limoncello Lemon Muffins with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra lemony punch, you can add more lemon zest or a few drops of lemon extract to the batter.

Storing and Freezing Muffins

These Limoncello Lemon Muffins can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead option.

To reheat frozen muffins, simply remove one and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm treat, heat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You might consider serving them alongside a refreshing fruit salad or a cup of herbal tea, which complements the lemony brightness nicely.

For an added enjoyable twist, try transforming these muffins into a delightful dessert by serving them with a scoop of lemon sorbet or vanilla ice cream. The contrast of textures and temperatures makes for a refreshing end to any meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute limoncello with something else?

Yes, you can use lemon juice or lemon extract, but the flavor will be different.

→ How should I store the muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they're ready!