Print

Homemade Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These homemade lemon cupcakes are bursting with bright, citrusy flavor and topped with a rich, smooth vanilla frosting. Made with fresh lemon zest and juice, these cupcakes have a tender, moist crumb and are perfect for spring or summer gatherings. The creamy vanilla frosting adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tangy lemon flavor, making this an irresistible treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Vanilla Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk, for consistency)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with 12 liners.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
  • For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. Add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
  • Frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with lemon zest, if desired.

Notes

  • For extra lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon extract to the frosting.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition