LEMON POPPY SEED MUFFINS

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°F Coat muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Add the egg yolks, one at a time.
• Beat well after each.
• In a separate bowl, stir together the dry ingredients, poppy seeds, and lemon zest.
• With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating two times with the buttermilk, then lemon juice, and then vanilla.
• Beat just until smooth.
• In another bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.
• Gently fold them into the muffin batter until blended.
• Spoon the batter into the prepared pan, 3/4-full.
• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool for 5 minutes before removing to cool completely.
• I sometimes sprinkle the muffin mixture with sugar prior to putting in the oven just to add a little extra sweetness.