Lemon Ricotta Muffins with Almonds

Lemon Ricotta Muffins Recipe

Introduction

If you are craving a delightful, fresh-tasting treat that combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the zesty flavor of lemon, these Lemon Ricotta Muffins are a perfect choice. Light, fluffy, and bursting with citrusy goodness, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a sweet snack, or a charming dessert to serve at gatherings. The best part? These muffins are incredibly easy to make, and the combination of ingredients ensures a moist and flavorful result every time. Let’s dive into how you can make these delicious muffins at home.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per muffin)

Please note that nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tray:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tray with paper muffin liners to ensure easy removal once they are baked.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process will take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add Oil and Ricotta:
   Slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil while continuing to beat the mixture. After that, add the ricotta cheese, ensuring it is well-drained and smooth. Mix until the ricotta is fully incorporated into the batter.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
   Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder into the wet mixture. It’s important to sift the flour to avoid lumps and to ensure an airy, smooth batter. Mix everything together using the electric mixer or a spatula until the batter becomes smooth and lump-free.

5. Flavoring with Lemon:
   Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest to the mixture. This will infuse the muffins with a refreshing citrus aroma and flavor. Mix until the lemon is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

6. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
   Transfer the muffin batter into a piping bag without a nozzle (a simple plastic bag with the tip cut off will work as well). This helps you to easily portion the batter into the muffin cups without making a mess. Fill each muffin cup up to about two-thirds of its capacity, leaving room for the muffins to rise.

7. Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top of each muffin for a delightful crunch and a beautiful presentation. The almonds will toast lightly while baking, adding extra flavor and texture to your muffins.

8. Bake:
   Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

9. Cool and Serve:
   Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tray for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These muffins are best enjoyed slightly warm, but they also keep well for a couple of days if stored in an airtight container.

Tips for Success:

• Ricotta Texture: Make sure your ricotta is well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming too runny. If the ricotta seems too watery, place it in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl to drain off any excess liquid.
• Lemon Zest: Use fresh lemon zest for the best flavor. A microplane grater works wonders for zesting lemons and provides a fine texture that evenly blends into the batter.
• Almond Topping: You can substitute the sliced almonds with chopped walnuts or even a sprinkle of sugar for a different flavor twist.
• Make Ahead: These muffins can be made ahead and stored at room temperature for a couple of days, or they can be frozen for up to a month. To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-lock bag.

Serving Suggestions:

These Lemon Ricotta Muffins are perfect as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They are also a great addition to a brunch spread or served alongside fresh fruit for a light breakfast. Their citrusy brightness makes them a refreshing treat after a heavy meal or as part of a light, flavorful dessert platter.

Final Thoughts:

These Lemon Ricotta Muffins are an absolute must-try if you’re looking for a soft, tender, and slightly tangy treat that will leave you craving more. With the combination of ricotta’s creaminess and lemon’s refreshing zest, each bite is a balance of sweet and tangy perfection. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!