Lemon-strawberry cupcakes are a delightful blend of fresh, zesty lemon and sweet strawberry, creating light, fruity desserts perfect for spring and summer. These cupcakes have moist, fluffy texture with bright lemon flavor in every bite, complemented by juicy strawberries folded in the batter. Topped with tangy lemon-cream cheese frosting, they offer the perfect balance of sweet and tart. These cupcakes are ideal for birthdays, picnics or any occasion you want fresh and flavorful treats.
INGREDIENTS
For the cupcakes
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1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/3 cup milk
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
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For Lemon-cream cheese frosting
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Fresh strawberries for garnish (optional)
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350¡ãF (175¡ãC) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice, zest and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the diced strawberry.
5. Bake the cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Make frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice and zest, beating until fluffy and well-combined.
7. Frost the cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe or spread lemon-cream cheese frosting on top. Garnish with fresh strawberry, if desired.
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These lemon-strawberry cupcakes are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor, making them refreshing and delicious treats for any occasion!