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The Best Moist Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

The Best Moist Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Soft and fluffy lemon cupcakes bursting with fresh citrus flavor and topped with a smooth, creamy lemon buttercream frosting. Perfectly moist with a tender crumb and bright finish.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 medium fresh lemons, zest and 2 tablespoons juice
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 12 cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Mix in lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  6. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
  7. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two thirds full.
  8. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. For the frosting, beat 1/4 cup softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar.
  11. Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and mix until creamy and smooth.
  12. Frost cooled cupcakes and garnish with additional lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon zest for the brightest flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
  • Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cupcake
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg