Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes are a delicious, light, and fluffy dessert that combines the tartness of fresh raspberries with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon. These cupcakes are made with a soft vanilla batter that's infused with lemon zest and dotted with sweet raspberries. Once baked to golden perfection, they are topped with a creamy, tangy lemon frosting, which adds a delightful layer of flavor to the already delicious cupcakes. Garnished with fresh raspberries and more lemon zest, these cupcakes are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or simply treating yourself.
INGREDIENTS- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Baking powder: 1 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Large eggs: 2
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Fresh raspberries: 1 cup
- Lemon zest: Zest of 1 lemon
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup (for lemon cream frosting)
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp (for lemon cream frosting)
- Fresh raspberries: For garnish
- Lemon zest: For garnish
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 4:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in the raspberries and lemon zest.
- Step 6:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7:
- To prepare the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Step 8:
- Frost the cooled cupcakes with the lemon cream frosting. Garnish with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before applying the frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These cupcakes are perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or as a delightful treat for yourself or loved ones.
- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add a bit more lemon zest to both the batter and the frosting.
- To prevent the raspberries from sinking to the bottom of the cupcakes, lightly toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Mia suggests using fresh raspberries for the best flavor and texture, but frozen raspberries can also work in a pinch.
- Chef Alex recommends serving these cupcakes slightly chilled for a refreshing summer dessert.