Description
Soft and fluffy lemon cupcakes topped with a silky lemon buttercream, garnished with a fresh lemon slice and zest—perfect for spring, Easter, and summer celebrations! These bright and citrusy treats bring a refreshing burst of flavor to any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Lemon Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
For Garnish:
- Lemon zest
- Lemon slices
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Lemon Buttercream:
- Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Decorate the Cupcakes:
- Pipe a generous swirl of lemon buttercream onto each cupcake.
- Garnish with lemon zest, a fresh lemon slice, and an optional mint leaf for a refreshing touch.
Notes
- For a stronger lemon flavor, add ½ teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, substitute part of the butter with cream cheese for a tangy twist.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving