Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the refreshing flavors of summer. These cupcakes combine the tangy zest of lemons with the sweet allure of strawberries, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or simply craving a delicious treat, these cupcakes are the perfect choice. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 tablespoons sour cream

For the Filling:

• 1 batch lemon curd

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup strawberry jam
• 1/2 teaspoon strawberry extract
• 1 drop red gel food color (optional)
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Additional Items:

• Fresh strawberries, for topping

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Prepare the lemon curd ahead of time and keep it chilled until ready to use.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with 8 paper liners.

Step 3: Make the Cupcake Batter

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Mix in the egg, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add the salt and baking powder, mixing until just combined.
4. Alternate adding the all-purpose flour and sour cream, mixing until fully combined and no streaks remain in the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
3. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan until they are easy to handle, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, vanilla extract, strawberry jam, and strawberry extract until fully combined.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is smooth.
3. If desired, add a drop of red gel food color for a brighter shade of pink.

Step 6: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Use a sharp knife or a cupcake corer to remove the center of each cooled cupcake.
2. Fill each cupcake with a generous amount of lemon curd and replace the top portion of the core.
3. Frost the cupcakes with the prepared strawberry frosting.
4. Top each cupcake with a fresh strawberry for a beautiful and delicious finishing touch.

Enjoy!

These Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. The combination of tangy lemon curd and sweet strawberry frosting is sure to delight your taste buds. Happy baking!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 cupcakes
Calories: 320 kcal per cupcake

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By following this recipe, you’ll create a batch of Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes that are perfect for any summer occasion. Their bright flavors and beautiful presentation will make them a hit with friends and family alike. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!