The lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting recipe is a delightful treat you can make for any occasion. The tartness of the lemon perfectly balances the sweetness of the vanilla frosting, creating a flavor that is both refreshing and indulgent. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but also offers room for more advanced bakers to show off their skills.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, there are a few you might want to take extra note of. Lemon zest and lemon juice are key for giving the cupcakes their distinctive tangy flavor. If you don't have a lemon zester at home, you can use the finest side of a box grater, but be careful not to grate into the bitter white pith. As for the vanilla extract, try to get pure vanilla extract instead of imitation for the best flavor.
Ingredients for Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
Unsalted butter: Used for its rich, creamy flavor and aids in creating a tender crumb in the cupcakes.
Granulated sugar: Gives sweetness to the cupcakes.
Eggs: Provide structure and stability in the batter, and add moisture.
Pure vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the cupcakes and frosting.
All-purpose flour: The base of the cupcakes; gives them structure and body.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise in the oven.
Salt: Enhances the flavors in the cupcakes.
Whole milk: Adds moisture and lightens the batter.
Lemon zest and Lemon juice: Gives the cupcakes a strong, tangy lemon flavor.
Vanilla buttercream: The sweet, creamy frosting that complements the tart lemon cupcakes.
One reader, Eldridge Marr says:
These lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting are a delightful treat! The zesty lemon flavor perfectly complements the sweet vanilla frosting. The cupcakes are moist and fluffy, and the frosting is creamy and delicious. A perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Techniques Required for Making Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
How to zest a lemon: Use a zester or a fine grater to remove the outer yellow peel of the lemon, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
How to juice a lemon: Roll the lemon on a hard surface to release the juices, then cut it in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract the juice.
How to frost cupcakes: Use a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip or simply spread the frosting on top of the cupcakes using a knife or offset spatula. Start from the center and swirl outwards for a decorative finish.
How To Make Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
With hints of fresh flavors, vanilla buttercream frosting makes these lemon cupcakes the right balance of sweet and tangy tones that are perfect with tea.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ½cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 1cupgranulated sugar,200g
- 2large eggs,at room temperature
- 1½tsppure vanilla extract
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- 2tspbaking powder
- ½tspsalt
- ½cupwhole milk
- 1½tbsplemon zest
- ⅓cuplemon juice,fresh
- *vanilla buttercream,(see Recipe Notes for recipe), for topping
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
-
Using a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed in a large bowl for about 2 minutes until creamed. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
-
Add eggs and vanilla extract, then beat on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Set aside.
-
Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, start the mixer on low speed, then slowly add the milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Do not overmix.
-
Spoon batter evenly into 12 cupcake liners, filling them about ⅔ full. Bake for about 18 to 22 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.
-
Frost cooled cupcakes with vanilla buttercream.
-
Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
- *Check out the Vanilla Buttercream Frosting Recipe to learn how to make the creamy topping.
- For around 30 mini cupcakes, bake for about 11 to 13 minutes, same oven temperature.
- Leftover cupcakes keep well covered tightly in the refrigerator for 3 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 211.89kcal
- Fat: 8.97g
- Saturated Fat: 5.34g
- Trans Fat: 0.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.39g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.53g
- Carbohydrates: 30.02g
- Fiber: 0.52g
- Sugar: 17.53g
- Protein: 3.10g
- Cholesterol: 52.35mg
- Sodium: 161.30mg
- Calcium: 78.95mg
- Potassium: 53.69mg
- Iron: 0.98mg
- Vitamin A: 82.73µg
- Vitamin C: 3.59mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
When zesting the lemon, make sure to only grate the outermost, yellow part of the rind. The white pith underneath is bitter and can affect the overall taste of your cupcakes. Using a microplane grater can make this process easier and more precise. Additionally, to get the most juice out of your lemon, roll it on the counter before cutting and squeezing. This breaks down some of the fibers inside the fruit, making it easier to extract the juice.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Lemon Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Prepare the lemon zest and juice the day before to save time on the day of baking.
Room temperature ingredients: Bring the butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature before starting the recipe for quicker mixing and better incorporation of ingredients.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion the cupcake batter evenly into the liners, saving time and ensuring uniform cupcakes.
Double the batch: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing extra cupcakes for future use, saving time on baking in the future.
One-bowl mixing: Combine the dry and wet ingredients in one bowl to minimize cleanup and save time on washing multiple dishes.
Substitute Ingredients For Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cupcakes while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes, and it also complements the lemon flavor well.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For those with gluten sensitivities, using gluten-free flour can be a suitable alternative without compromising the texture of the cupcakes.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle nutty flavor to the cupcakes.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the cupcakes, offering a refreshing twist to the flavor profile.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice can offer a tangy and zesty flavor similar to lemon juice, adding a unique citrus twist to the cupcakes.
vanilla buttercream - Substitute with cream cheese frosting: Cream cheese frosting can provide a tangy and creamy topping that pairs well with the lemon cupcakes, offering a delicious alternative to vanilla buttercream.
Presentation Tips for Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
Elevate the cupcake presentation: When plating the lemon cupcakes, consider using a decorative serving platter or a beautiful cake stand to showcase the cupcakes in an elegant and visually appealing manner.
Garnish with lemon zest: Sprinkle a touch of freshly grated lemon zest on top of the vanilla frosting to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma, enhancing the overall presentation and flavor profile of the cupcakes.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate and edible flowers, such as candied violets or rose petals, as a sophisticated and visually stunning garnish to bring a touch of elegance to the presentation of the lemon cupcakes.
Utilize gold leaf accents: For a luxurious touch, consider delicately adorning the cupcakes with edible gold leaf to create a sense of opulence and refinement, elevating the overall presentation to Michelin-star standards.
Arrange in a geometric pattern: Arrange the cupcakes in a visually striking geometric pattern on the serving platter, creating an aesthetically pleasing and artful display that showcases precision and attention to detail.
Serve with a side of fresh berries: Accompany the lemon cupcakes with a side of vibrant and fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, elegantly arranged on the plate to add a burst of color and freshness to the presentation.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the serving platter with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to create an exquisite and refined backdrop for the lemon cupcakes, adding a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Lemon Cupcakes
Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It is equipped with various attachments for different tasks, making it an essential tool for baking and cooking.
Muffin pan: A muffin pan, also known as a cupcake pan, is a specialized baking pan with individual cup-shaped depressions used to bake muffins, cupcakes, and other small baked goods.
Mixing bowl: Mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients and mixing batters. They come in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, and ceramic, and are a fundamental tool in any kitchen.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It is commonly used to incorporate air into mixtures and create smooth, uniform textures.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes. They come in various sizes and are essential for precise and consistent cooking and baking.
Cupcake liners: Cupcake liners, also known as paper cases or cupcake wrappers, are used to line the muffin pan and prevent the cupcakes from sticking. They come in different colors and designs, adding a decorative touch to the baked goods.
Spatula: A spatula is a versatile kitchen tool used for scraping, spreading, and folding ingredients. It is essential for transferring batter into cupcake liners and frosting cupcakes.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking and cooking food. It provides the necessary heat to bake the lemon cupcakes to perfection.
Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool baked goods such as cupcakes, allowing air to circulate around the baked items and preventing them from becoming soggy.
Piping bag and tips: Piping bags and tips are used for decorating and frosting cupcakes. They allow for precise and decorative frosting designs, adding a professional touch to the finished cupcakes.
How To Store and Freeze Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid environment, store them in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting.
- To freeze unfrosted cupcakes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes at room temperature for about an hour before frosting.
- To freeze frosted cupcakes, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm, about 2 hours. Then, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- If you have leftover lemon zest, you can freeze it for later use. Place the zest in a small freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 6 months. When ready to use, thaw the zest at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- If you have leftover lemon juice, you can freeze it in an ice cube tray for later use. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 6 months. When ready to use, thaw the cubes at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes
- The best way to reheat leftover lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps to restore the cupcakes' texture and flavor without drying them out or making the frosting melt too much.
- Another option is to use a microwave, but be cautious as it can cause the cupcakes to become soggy and the frosting to melt unevenly. If using a microwave, place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking after each interval to avoid overheating.
- For a quicker and more convenient method, you can also reheat the cupcakes in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
- If you prefer a softer, more moist cupcake, you can place a damp paper towel over the cupcake before reheating it in the microwave. This helps to create steam and prevent the cake from drying out.
- Lastly, if you have the time and prefer a fresher taste, you can remove the vanilla frosting from the lemon cupcakes before reheating them. After warming the cupcakes using one of the above methods, re-apply the frosting or add a fresh batch for an almost-new cupcake experience.
Random Fact about Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
The lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting recipe is a delightful treat that combines the zesty flavor of lemons with the sweetness of vanilla.
Is Making Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Economical for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of lemon and vanilla extract adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering the delightful combination of flavors and the reasonable cost.
Are Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Healthy or Unhealthy?
The lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its unhealthy status are:
- High sugar content from the granulated sugar and vanilla frosting
- Refined all-purpose flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients
- Butter, a source of saturated fat
- Whole milk, adding more saturated fat and calories
However, the recipe does include some redeeming qualities, such as the use of fresh lemon zest and juice, which provide vitamin C and a bright, natural flavor.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcake batter and opt for a lighter frosting or glaze
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Substitute the butter with a healthier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil
- Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk
- Incorporate additional fresh fruit, like blueberries or raspberries, into the batter for extra nutrients and natural sweetness
- Top the cupcakes with a Greek yogurt-based frosting for a protein boost and reduced sugar content
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some nutritional benefits. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to indulge in a classic lemon cupcake every once in a while as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Thoughts on This Lemon Cupcake Recipe
The lemon cupcakes with vanilla frosting recipe is a delightful combination of zesty and sweet flavors. The use of fresh lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing citrusy note to the moist and tender cupcakes, while the creamy vanilla buttercream provides a perfect balance of sweetness. The recipe's straightforward instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers, and the end result is a batch of beautifully fragrant and delicious cupcakes that are sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these cupcakes are a delightful addition to any dessert spread.
Enhance Your Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Lemon Cupcakes
Why trust this Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful treat, as it incorporates fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor. The use of vanilla extract and buttercream ensures a rich and aromatic taste. The precise measurements and detailed instructions guarantee a perfect outcome. The combination of unsalted butter and whole milk creates a moist and tender texture. With the careful selection of ingredients and meticulous preparation, this recipe promises a delectable experience for all.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Garden Patch Carrot Cupcakes Recipe
Ina Garten’s Lemon Yogurt Cake Recipe
Lemon-Filled Cupcakes Recipe
Raspberry Lemon Cupcakes Recipe
Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Lily’s Lemon Cupcakes Recipe
Classic Lemon Cupcakes Recipe
Lemon Meringue Cupcakes Recipe
Honey Lemon Cupcakes Recipe
Blueberry Cupcakes with Lemon Buttercream Frosting and Blueberry Sauce Recipe
Lemon & Poppyseed Cupcakes Recipe
