Description
These Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Buttercream Frosting are bright, zesty, and irresistibly fluffy! Perfect for springtime celebrations, birthdays, or whenever you need a sunny, citrusy dessert
Ingredients
For the Lemon Cupcakes:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1/4 cup milk
For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:
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1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1 tbsp lemon zest
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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1-2 tbsp heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
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Add eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
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Add the flour mixture alternately with the sour cream and milk, beginning and ending with the flour. Stir just until combined.
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Fill cupcake liners about ⅔ full and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool cupcakes in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
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Beat in lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Add heavy cream as needed to reach a smooth, fluffy consistency.
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Frost cooled cupcakes with the lemon buttercream and garnish with extra lemon zest if desired.
Notes
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For extra lemony flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the batter and frosting.
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Use a piping bag for a beautifully swirled frosting top.
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Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
