1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar*¾ cup (180 grams) whole buttermilk, room temperature⅔ cup (166 grams) whole-milk ricotta, room temperature⅓ cup (75 grams) canola oil2 large eggs (100 grams), room temperature3 tablespoons (12 grams) packed lemon zest (about 3 to 4 medium lemons)4 teaspoons (20 grams) fresh lemon juice½ teaspoon (2 grams) vanilla extract2¼ cups (281 grams) all-purpose flour2 tablespoons (18 grams) poppy seeds2 teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder1½ teaspoons (4.5 grams) kosher salt¼ teaspoon (1.25 grams) baking soda2 tablespoons (28 grams) sparkling sugar
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, buttermilk, ricotta, oil, eggs, lemon zest and juice, and vanilla.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, poppy seeds, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Fold in sugar mixture just until combined and no flour pockets remain. (Batter will still be lumpy; do not overmix.)
Spray 10 to 12 wells of a standard muffin pan with cooking spray; fill each until batter is about ¼ inch from top edge of well (about ⅓ cup [about 87 grams] each). Sprinkle with sparkling sugar.
Bake until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean, 14 to 18 minutes. Let cool in pans for 5 minutes. Remove from pan, and serve warm, or let cool completely on a wire rack.