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Finished Easy Lemon Cupcakes with Vanilla Frosting, garnished with lemon slices.

Easy Lemon Cupcakes With Vanilla Frosting Recipe

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These Easy Lemon Cupcakes With Vanilla Frosting are the perfect balance of zesty citrus and sweet creaminess. Made with fresh lemon juice and zest, these cupcakes are light, fluffy, and topped with a smooth vanilla frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this simple recipe ensures delicious results every time!

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Vanilla Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
  2. In a bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually fold in dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) alternating with milk.
  5. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
  7. For the frosting, beat softened butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream until fluffy.
  8. Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For extra flair, garnish with lemon zest or slices.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cupcake
  • Calories: 320 Kcal
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg