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Judy John

Simple Lemon Cupcakes Recipe

These simple lemon cupcakes bake with fluffy texture, bright citrus flavor, and soft crumbs. They make easy homemade desserts perfect for parties, brunches, or sweet everyday treats.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 18 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Lemon Cupcake Batter
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour leveled
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup whole milk room temperature
Lemon Frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Hand Mixer
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Cupcake Pan
  • Cupcake Liners
  • Cooling Rack
  • Freezer
  • Zester
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a cupcake pan with liners.
  2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together until evenly combined.
  3. Beat butter and sugar until fluffy with a light creamy texture.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon juice and zest.
  5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk until the batter looks smooth and silky.
  6. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full for even rising and fluffy texture.
  7. Bake for 12 minutes until tops spring back lightly when touched.
  8. Cool cupcakes completely on a rack before frosting generously.
  9. Beat frosting ingredients until fluffy and smooth, then frost cooled cupcakes evenly.

Notes

For softer cupcakes, avoid overmixing and remove them promptly after baking. Bake slightly longer for firmer texture. Freeze unfrosted cupcakes tightly wrapped for future desserts. Chill frosting briefly if it softens during decorating. Add berries, coconut, or vanilla glaze for flavor changes. Store frosted cupcakes covered for up to four days.