Zesty Lemon Sesame Vegan Muffins
Indulge in these delightful Zesty Lemon Sesame Vegan Muffins, a perfect balance of tangy and nutty flavors. Inspired by a classic recipe from Carnal Vegan, these muffins are modified to enhance their taste and texture, incorporating the beneficial properties of whole wheat flour and flax seeds. The unique combination of almond milk and apple cider vinegar provides a light and airy texture, while the night addition of sesame oil and seeds adds a toasted richness. Feel free to experiment with different flour varieties or substitute part of the oil with applesauce for a lighter twist. Ideal for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins are sure to brighten your day with every bite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole wheat flour
1 3/4 cups (sifted)
sugar
1/2 cup (organic, evaporated cane juice, or turbinado)
baking powder
2 teaspoons (none)
sea salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
almond milk
1 cup (unsweetened)
apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon (none)
ground flax seeds
1 tablespoon (mixed with water)
water
2 tablespoons (to mix with flax seeds)
canola oil
1/3 cup (light oil)
sesame oil
1 tablespoon (can increase to 2 tablespoons)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
lemon
1 (zest and juice)
sesame seeds
to garnish (none)
sugar
to garnish (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or spraying it lightly with oil.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, and sea salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
3
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Stir gently and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
4
In another small bowl, whisk together the ground flax seeds and water for about a minute, then set aside to thicken.
5
In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining wet ingredients: canola oil, sesame oil, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined, then add in the almond milk mixture and the flax egg. Stir well.
6
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure fluffy muffins.
7
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle sesame seeds and a light dusting of sugar on top of each muffin.
8
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 22-23 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious muffins warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Lemon Sesame Vegan Muffins?
They are a plant-based baked good that balances tangy lemon and nutty sesame flavors, modified from a Carnal Vegan recipe.
Are these muffins 100% vegan?
Yes, they use plant-based ingredients like almond milk and a flax egg instead of dairy or poultry products.
What type of flour is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 3/4 cups of sifted whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with different flour varieties, though whole wheat is used in the primary version.
How do I make a flax egg for this recipe?
Whisk 1 tablespoon of ground flax seeds with 2 tablespoons of water for about a minute and let it thicken.
What is the purpose of adding apple cider vinegar to the almond milk?
The vinegar curdles the almond milk to create a vegan buttermilk, which helps provide a light and airy texture.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do these muffins need to bake?
Bake the muffins for approximately 22 to 23 minutes.
How can I tell when the muffins are finished baking?
They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Can I make these muffins lower in fat?
Yes, you can substitute part of the oil with applesauce for a lighter, lower-fat twist.
What kind of sugar should I use?
You can use organic sugar, evaporated cane juice, or turbinado sugar.
What does sesame oil add to the recipe?
Sesame oil provides a unique toasted richness that complements the citrus flavor.
How much sesame oil can I use?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon, but you can increase it to 2 tablespoons for a stronger flavor.
Is fresh lemon required?
Yes, the recipe requires the zest and juice of one fresh lemon for the best flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 14 ingredients listed, including those used for the garnish.
Should I use unsweetened or sweetened almond milk?
The recipe specifies using unsweetened almond milk.
What is the best way to prepare the muffin tin?
Line the tin with paper liners or spray it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Why shouldn't I overmix the batter?
Avoiding overmixing ensures that the muffins remain fluffy rather than becoming dense or tough.
How full should I fill the muffin cups?
Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
What are the recommended toppings?
Sprinkle sesame seeds and a light dusting of sugar on top of each muffin before baking.
How should I cool the muffins?
Let them cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Can these be eaten warm?
Yes, these muffins are delicious whether served warm or at room temperature.
What is the role of baking powder in this recipe?
Baking powder acts as the leavening agent to help the muffins rise.
Is canola oil the only oil I can use?
The recipe suggests any light oil can be used as a base alongside the sesame oil.
What tags describe this recipe?
Key tags include vegan, muffins, lemon, sesame, breakfast, healthy, and whole wheat.
Is there sea salt in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.
What makes this recipe 'healthy'?
It uses whole wheat flour, flax seeds, and offers a lower-fat modification using applesauce.
Who is the original inspiration for this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by a classic version from the Carnal Vegan.
Does the recipe contain vanilla?
Yes, it includes 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
When is the best time to eat these muffins?
They are ideal for breakfast or as a nutritious snack throughout the day.