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; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup Limoncello; 3 large eggs; Zest of 2 lemons; Juice of 1 lemon; Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

I absolutely love baking, and these Limoncello Lemon Muffins have become one of my favorite treats to prepare. The combination of zesty lemon and the unique twist of Limoncello creates a refreshingly flavorful muffin that’s perfect for any occasion. From breakfast to an afternoon snack, these muffins bring a delightful burst of sunshine to your day. With just the right amount of sweetness and a tender crumb, I can't resist sharing this recipe with friends and family!

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:05:34.375Z

When I first experimented with these muffins, I was looking for a way to incorporate my love for Limoncello into a baked good. I decided to replace some of the liquid with Limoncello, and the result was delightful! These muffins are perfectly moist with a distinct yet subtle citrus kick that really elevates the flavor profile. I usually whip these up for brunch gatherings, and they always steal the show!

To make these muffins stand out even more, I like to glaze them with a simple lemon-limoncello icing. It adds a beautiful sheen and gives each bite an extra punch of flavor. Plus, using fresh lemons instead of bottled juice ensures that they taste vibrant and refreshing. Once you've tried this version, I guarantee you’ll abandon any plain lemon muffin recipes!

Why You Will Love These Muffins
The refreshing taste of Limoncello enhances traditional lemon flavor.
Each muffin is moist with a perfect crumb, making them delightful to eat.
They're quick to make and great for sharing with friends.

Perfecting Your Muffin Batter

Achieving the ideal texture in your Limoncello Lemon Muffins hinges on how you mix your ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, while under-mixing can result in uneven texture. When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently until just combined. Look for pockets of flour but ensure the batter is cohesive. This ensures that the muffins rise properly and maintain a tender crumb.

For a delightful burst of lemon flavor, don’t skimp on the zest. The oils in the lemon zest add an aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste of the muffins. A microplane zester works wonders for finely grating the zest without the bitter pith. Always incorporate the zest into the wet ingredients for maximum distribution and flavor infusion throughout each muffin.

Baking and Storing Tips

Keep an eye on your muffins as they bake; you'll want to look for golden-brown tops and springs back when gently pressed. The toothpick test is reliable, but visual cues are also important. If they’re browning too quickly, you may need to cover them loosely with foil. This will prevent over-baking on top while ensuring the center cooks through.

If you want to prepare these muffins in advance, they freeze beautifully! Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious muffins:

Ingredients for Limoncello Lemon Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup Limoncello
3 large eggs
Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 1 lemon
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

With these fresh ingredients, you are ready to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Limoncello Lemon Muffins:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, Limoncello, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fill Muffin Tins

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Limoncello Lemon Muffins!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle a lemon-limoncello glaze over the cooled muffins for added sweetness and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make a dairy-free version of these muffins, you can replace buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to achieve a similar tangy flavor. Almond milk or oat milk are excellent options that complement the lemon taste without overwhelming the recipe.

Should you not have Limoncello on hand, consider substituting it with another citrus liqueur, such as orange or grapefruit liqueur, for a unique twist. Alternatively, you can increase the lemon juice and zest for a non-alcoholic version, though the muffins will be less sweet and aromatic without the distinct flavor of Limoncello.

Serving Suggestions

For a special touch, dust the cooled muffins with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a lovely presentation and a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon. You could also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the muffins for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pair these muffins with a light breakfast tea or coffee for an enjoyable afternoon treat. They can also be served alongside a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful brunch spread. The bright flavors make them particularly suitable for sunny days or festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Limoncello?

Absolutely! However, the unique flavor of Limoncello adds a distinct sweetness that you may want to replicate with extra sugar.

→ Can these muffins be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are completely cooled and stored in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

→ How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour to replace the all-purpose flour in this recipe.