Lemon cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the freshness of citrus with the sweetness of cake. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to afternoon tea parties. Follow this recipe to create light and tangy lemon cupcakes that will brighten up your day!
Ingredients for Lemon Cupcakes:
For the Cupcakes:
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 and 1/2 cups
- Baking Powder: 1 and 1/2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Lemon Zest: Zest of 2 lemons
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Juice of 2 lemons (about 1/4 cup)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup
For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Confectioners’ Sugar: 3 cups, sifted
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon Zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Yellow Food Coloring (optional): a few drops
How to Make Lemon Cupcakes:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. Alternate Adding Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Fill Cupcake Liners:
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Make the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
- While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using). Beat until light and fluffy.
9. Frost the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the lemon buttercream frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with additional lemon zest or small lemon slices if desired. Serve and enjoy these delightful lemon cupcakes!
About the Main Ingredients:
Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice impart a vibrant citrus flavor to the cupcakes, making them tangy and refreshing.
Butter and Sugar: Creaming butter and sugar together creates a light and airy texture in the cupcakes, ensuring a moist and tender crumb.
These Lemon Cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their bright flavor and fluffy texture make them irresistible for lemon lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike!
