Lemon Cupcakes Recipe – Moist, Fluffy & Perfectly Citrusy Dessert

If you love the bright, zesty flavor of lemons, then this Lemon Cupcakes Recipe is perfect for you! These cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and bursting with a refreshing citrus taste, making them an ideal dessert for spring and summer gatherings, birthdays, or afternoon tea. The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and a light, buttery texture creates a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Topped with a creamy lemon buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees perfect results every time.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: American, European
• Course: Dessert
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microplane or grater (for lemon zest)
• Cupcake liners
• Muffin tin
• Cooling rack
• Spatula
• Piping bag (for frosting, optional)

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tbsp sour cream (optional, for extra moisture)

For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (as needed for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. If using sour cream, fold it in gently at the end.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Buttercream Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed. Add lemon juice, zest, vanilla extract, and heavy cream (if needed) until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula. Garnish with extra lemon zest or a lemon slice for decoration.

Tips for Best Results

• Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
• Do Not Overmix – Overmixing the batter can make the cupcakes dense.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Butter, eggs, and milk should be at room temperature for even mixing.
• Chill the Frosting – If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 10 minutes before piping.

Pairing Suggestions

These lemon cupcakes pair well with:

• A cup of hot tea (chamomile, earl grey, or green tea)
• Fresh berries or berry compote
• A drizzle of honey or white chocolate sauce

Conclusion

This Lemon Cupcakes Recipe is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and bursting with citrusy goodness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these moist and fluffy cupcakes with creamy lemon buttercream will be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of sunshine in every bite!