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If you're a fan of breakfast delights or simply enjoy indulging in a tasty snack throughout the day, zesty orange poppy seed muffins are sure to capture your heart and palate. These delightful muffins are a perfect marriage of bright citrus flavor and nutty texture, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you're savoring them with your morning coffee, packing them in your lunch, or enjoying them as an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins are versatile enough to fit into any part of your day.

Orange Poppy Seed Muffins

Discover the joy of baking with zesty orange poppy seed muffins, a perfect blend of bright citrus and nutty texture. These delicious muffins are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile—ideal for breakfast, a midday snack, or brunch parties. Packed with vitamin C and moisture from fresh orange juice and zest, they are as nutritious as they are tasty. Enjoy the delightful aroma and flavor that will fill your kitchen as you bake these irresistible treats!
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Ingredients
  

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon poppy seeds

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

Zest from 1 large orange

Juice from 1 large orange (approximately ½ cup)

Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or applying a light coat of cooking spray to each cup.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients until they are thoroughly blended, then set the bowl aside.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate medium-sized bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

        Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Blend until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually introduce the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and finish with the flour mixture, folding it in gently until just combined. It’s important to avoid overmixing; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable.

            Distribute the Batter: Carefully spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full to allow for rising.

              Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean, indicating they are fully baked.

                Cool and Serve: After baking, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for around 5 minutes. Once they are slightly cooled, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar before serving for a delightful finishing touch.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins

                    Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, serve the muffins on a colorful platter, garnished with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of additional poppy seeds for visual appeal. Enjoy your zesty treat!