Looking for a sweet treat that packs a citrus punch? These Lemon Cupcakes are just what you need! Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, they bring a delightful brightness to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
The best part? They are surprisingly easy to bake! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these zesty delights that will have your friends and family asking for seconds. The combination of fluffy cupcake and creamy frosting is a match made in dessert heaven.
The Perfect Lemon Cupcake Recipe
These Lemon Cupcakes are light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet with a tangy twist. Topped with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a refreshing taste that lingers on the palate.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in the buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them generously with the lemon cream cheese frosting. Garnish with extra lemon zest if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy your zesty lemon cupcakes with a refreshing beverage!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 cupcakes
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
