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Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Buttercream Frosting

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

Description

Light and zesty lemon cupcakes topped with a creamy, fruity raspberry buttercream frosting—perfect for spring gatherings or special occasions.


Ingredients

  • 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 2 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1/4 cup raspberry puree (strained to remove seeds)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • Pinch of salt (for frosting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest until combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. To make the frosting, beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, raspberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until fluffy.
  11. Pipe or spread the frosting onto cooled cupcakes and garnish with a fresh raspberry or lemon zest if desired.

Notes

  • Make sure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting.
  • Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor in the buttercream.
  • Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.