Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

This Lemon Cupcakes Recipe is the perfect treat for any occasion! Its light, fluffy texture combined with a tangy-sweet flavor from real lemons makes these cupcakes irresistible. They are easy to prepare from scratch, making them ideal for birthdays, picnics, or just a delightful dessert at home. Top them off with a creamy frosting for an extra special touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and Fluffy Texture: These cupcakes are incredibly soft and airy, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.
• Real Lemon Flavor: Using fresh lemons gives these cupcakes a vibrant citrus taste that truly stands out.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can master this delicious recipe without stress.
• Versatile Topping Options: Whether you prefer cream cheese frosting or whipped cream, you can customize your topping to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These lemon cupcakes are great for celebrations or as a sweet snack during the day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Cupcake pans
• Paper liners

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easier and ensures smooth batter without lumps.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your workspace organized while separating dry and wet ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.

Ingredients

This lemon cupcakes recipe is light, fluffy, and moist. Easy to make from scratch with real lemons for that tangy-sweet citrus flavor.

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (stir, spoon & level)
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ cup oil (canola/vegetable)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
– ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 4 tsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
– yellow food coloring (optional)
– ½ cup buttermilk
– 8 oz brick cream cheese (COLD (full fat or Neufchatel))
– 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
– ⅛ tsp salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream or heavy cream (COLD)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (or 400˚F for high altitude). Line cupcake pans with paper liners.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the oil and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and yellow food coloring if desired. Mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the flour in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk in two additions—beginning and ending with the flour. Scrape the bowl as necessary. Mix until just combined; do not over-mix. Fill each cupcake liner ⅔ full to avoid overflow.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake at 375˚F (or 400˚F for high altitude) for 15–20 minutes or until cake springs back when touched or a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese for about 10–15 seconds. Scrape bowl. Then add the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla; mix until combined. Switch to the whisk attachment and whip frosting on medium speed while slowly adding heavy cream until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Frost Cupcakes

Pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes immediately. Refrigerate frosted cupcakes and any extra frosting for later use.

How to Serve Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

Lemon cupcakes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving them with complementary flavors or pairings can enhance the overall experience, making them perfect for any occasion.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Fresh sliced strawberries add a sweet and juicy contrast to the tart lemon flavor.
• Blueberries: These small, plump berries provide a burst of sweetness and color, making the dessert more vibrant.

With Whipped Cream

• Fresh Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the tanginess of the cupcakes.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or lemon extract to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

With Tea or Coffee

• Iced Tea: The refreshing taste of iced tea complements the citrus notes in lemon cupcakes beautifully.
• Espresso: A shot of rich espresso offers a nice contrast to the sweet, fluffy cupcakes.

How to Perfect Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

To ensure your lemon cupcakes turn out light, fluffy, and delicious every time, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and buttermilk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Mix until just combined to keep your cupcakes light and airy. Over-mixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement, preventing dry or heavy cupcakes.
• Bake at Correct Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly; incorrect temperatures can affect baking time and texture.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and maintain shape.
• Experiment with Flavor Additions: Feel free to add different citrus zest or extracts for unique variations on your lemon cupcakes.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

Lemon cupcakes pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their bright flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that enhances the lemon flavor.
2. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese balance the sweetness with savory notes.
3. Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast that works well with sweet treats.
4. Lemonade: Serve alongside chilled lemonade for a refreshing drink that echoes the cupcake’s flavor.
5. Panna Cotta: This creamy dessert pairs well with lemon flavors and adds an elegant touch to your meal.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Combining rich chocolate with tart strawberries creates an indulgent pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lemon cupcakes can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the end result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or butter can prevent your batter from mixing properly. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined for light and fluffy results.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can compact it, leading to dry cupcakes. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.

• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt. Allow your lemon cupcakes to cool completely before adding frosting.

• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can result in undercooked or burnt cupcakes. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

• Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cupcakes for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for 10-15 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Use a steamer basket over simmering water, covering for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this lemon cupcakes recipe:

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Using fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I make these lemon cupcakes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free lemon cupcakes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1.

What is the best way to frost my lemon cupcakes?

Using a piping bag gives a professional finish. You can also spread frosting with a knife for a more rustic look.

Can I make mini lemon cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes! Simply adjust the baking time and fill mini liners about halfway full. Bake for around 10-12 minutes.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can also be frozen for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

This lemon cupcakes recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. With its light, fluffy texture and bright flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your cupcakes with different frostings or decorations, making them uniquely yours! Try this delightful recipe today and enjoy these sweet treats with family and friends.

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Lemon Cupcakes

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade lemon cupcakes that are perfect for any celebration or casual treat. With a light and fluffy texture, these cupcakes burst with tangy-sweet notes from fresh lemons, making them an irresistible dessert. Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or simply as a sweet snack at home, these lemon cupcakes are easy to prepare and can be topped with your choice of creamy frosting for that extra special touch. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you through each step to create the ultimate lemony delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup oil (canola or vegetable)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 4 tsp lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• heavy cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line cupcake pans with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix oil and sugar; add eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice and zest.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients alternating with buttermilk until just combined.
5. Fill liners two-thirds full and bake for 15–20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool completely before frosting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg