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Freshly baked lemon cupcakes topped with creamy lemon frosting

Lemon Cupcakes

Delightful lemon cupcakes that combine sweetness and tartness for a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cupcake Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled) This forms the delicate structure of your cupcakes.
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder The magic ingredient that will make your cupcakes rise beautifully.
  • 0.5 tsp salt A whisper of salt to balance the sweetness.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened) Rich and creamy, it adds moisture and flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar The sweet component that makes these treats irresistible.
  • 2 large eggs For binding and adding a lovely richness.
  • 0.5 cup milk Ensures your batter is nice and smooth.
  • 2 tsp lemon zest Vibrant little specks that will explode with citrus aroma.
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice Adds that zesty punch that defines these cupcakes.

Frosting Ingredients

  • 4 cups powdered sugar The sweet, fluffy base for your frosting.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened) For a creamy and rich frosting texture.
  • 4 tbsp lemon juice The key ingredient for a tart and refreshing frosting.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest For an aromatic touch that complements the sweetness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
  • Gradually mix in the milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  • Line your cupcake tins with liners and fill each cup about two-thirds full with batter.

Baking

  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • Beat the softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in the lemon juice and zest.
  • Frost each cooled cupcake generously with the prepared lemon frosting.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a slice of lemon if desired.

Notes

Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature. Sifting dry ingredients can enhance the fluffy texture. Use high-quality lemons for the best flavor.
Keyword Baking, Cupcake Recipe, Dessert Recipe, Easy Cupcakes, Lemon Cupcakes