Introduction to Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
What are Lemon Lavender Cupcakes?
Lemon lavender cupcakes are an enchanting dessert that combines the refreshing zest of lemon with the delicate floral notes of lavender. Perfectly moist and topped with a velvety lemon buttercream frosting, these cupcakes are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a spring gathering, attending a bridal shower, or simply want to brighten up your day, they are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. The lavender adds a unique touch, elevating the typical lemon flavor to something extraordinary.
Why You Should Make Them Today!
Why wait for a special occasion when you can whip up these scrumptious cupcakes right now? The combination of lemon and lavender is not only delicious but also offers a hint of sophistication that makes every bite feel like a decadent treat. Plus, the process is incredibly simple; in just over an hour, you can have a dozen beautifully frosted cupcakes that will wow your friends and family.
If you're looking for a fun baking project or a creative way to showcase your culinary skills, this lemon lavender cupcake recipe is the perfect choice. Curious about the full recipe? Dive into the details below to start your baking adventure!
Ingredients for Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
When you're ready to whip up these delightful lemon lavender cupcakes, you'll need some essential ingredients to get started. Here's a handy breakdown:
Essential ingredients for the cupcakes
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup for that perfect texture.
- Dried lavender buds: 1½ teaspoons for that soothing floral note.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon to help them rise beautifully.
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon to enhance all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: 3 tablespoons, softened for a rich taste.
- Sugar: ¾ cup, to sweeten the deal.
- Egg: 1 large, for moisture and structure.
- Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon brings brightness.
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, which adds tanginess.
- Milk: ½ cup, preferably at room temperature for mixing ease.
Key ingredients for the frosting
For that luscious lemon buttercream, gather the following:
- Unsalted butter: 12 tablespoons (¾ cup), whipped until fluffy.
- Vegetable shortening: 4 tablespoons for stability.
- Powdered sugar: 4-5 cups, to reach that sweet spot in sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for depth of flavor.
- Heavy cream or milk: 1 tablespoon to soften the mixture.
- Fresh lemon juice: 4 tablespoons, for a zesty kick.
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon to tie the flavors together.
- Lavender buds: for a beautiful garnish.
Feeling inspired? For more about using herbs in baking, check out this comprehensive guide on culinary herbs. Enjoy crafting these delicious cupcakes!
Step-by-Step Preparation of Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Creating delightful lemon lavender cupcakes is a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these easy steps to make beautiful and delicious treats that are perfect for any occasion!
Preheat and Prepare the Cupcake Pan
Before you embark on your baking adventure, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your cupcake pan and line it with cute cupcake liners. This simple step not only makes for easy cleanup but also adds a lovely touch to your presentation. Having everything in place makes for a smoother baking process!
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons dried lavender buds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
This blend of ingredients is crucial. The dried lavender adds a delicate floral note, and the baking powder will ensure your cupcakes rise perfectly.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Next, it's time to get your mixer involved! In a separate bowl or using a stand mixer, beat together 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t rush this step; aeration is key for your lemon lavender cupcakes to achieve that perfect texture!
Incorporate the Eggs, Zest, and Juice
Add 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until everything is just combined. The zest and juice are essential for adding that bright lemon flavor, so don’t be tempted to skip this!
Mix in the Dry Ingredients and Milk
Now, gradually add in the dry ingredients mixture you set aside, alternating with ½ cup of room-temperature milk. Start with about a third of the dry mixture, mix it in, then add half the milk. Continue alternating until all ingredients are just combined—be careful not to over-mix, as this could make your cupcakes dense.
Fill the Liners and Bake
Once your batter is ready, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for rising. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Lemon Buttercream Frosting
While your cupcakes cool, it’s time to prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 12 tablespoons of butter and 4 tablespoons of vegetable shortening. Slowly incorporate 4-5 cups of powdered sugar until creamy. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of milk, 4 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Whip it up until you're satisfied with the flavor and consistency!
Now, you’re ready to decorate your lemon lavender cupcakes! Fill a piping bag and swirl frosting on top of each cupcake. For a charming finishing touch, sprinkle with lavender buds. Enjoy your exquisite treats!
For more baking inspiration, check out resources on baking techniques or explore the wonderful world of flavored frostings.
Variations on Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Vegan Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Want to enjoy lemon lavender cupcakes without the eggs or dairy? No problem! Simply replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water), and swap out the milk for a non-dairy alternative, like almond or oat milk. For the butter, plant-based margarine works beautifully. You’ll get the same delightful flavors while keeping it vegan!
Gluten-Free Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Craving lemon lavender cupcakes but need a gluten-free option? Use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a touch of almond extract alongside the lemon; trust us, it takes these cupcakes to the next level!
For more baking tips and flour alternatives, check out King Arthur Baking.
Baking Tips and Notes for Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Using Fresh Ingredients
To achieve the best flavor in your lemon lavender cupcakes, opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, as they pack more flavor than bottled alternatives. If you can find fresh lavender, it elevates the aroma and taste—just remember to use it sparingly; a little goes a long way!
Avoiding Overmixing
Mixing is essential, but be cautious! Overmixing your batter can lead to dense cupcakes. After combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you see no streaks of flour. This technique helps maintain the light, fluffy texture that makes your lemon lavender cupcakes irresistible. Remember, gentle is the way to go!
For more tips on baking, check out this helpful guide from King Arthur Baking to improve your technique.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Perfect pairings for tea time
Serve your delightful lemon lavender cupcakes alongside a fragrant herbal tea or a refreshing iced tea. The floral notes of the cupcakes harmonize beautifully with chamomile or lemon balm tea, creating a serene afternoon treat. For an extra touch, consider providing a selection of fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries, which can complement the citrusy flavors and add a burst of color to your tea spread.
Ideal occasions for serving
These charming cupcakes are perfect for various occasions! Whether it's a baby shower, bridal brunch, or simply a sunny weekend gathering, they add a touch of elegance. Imagine a picnic where each bite offers a hint of floral bliss or a cozy book club meeting enhanced by the uplifting flavors. No matter the event, lemon lavender cupcakes will surely be a conversation starter! Explore more ideas for your gatherings with Good Housekeeping’s tips on hosting a successful tea party here.
Time Breakdown for Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 18 minutes. This includes zesting the lemon and measuring out all your components, so put on some music and enjoy the process!
Baking time
The baking itself will take around 20-22 minutes. Keep a close eye on your lemon lavender cupcakes as they rise for that perfect golden color!
Total time
From start to finish, you’re looking at an hour to enjoy these delightful treats. That’s a small investment for a batch of gorgeous cupcakes that will impress everyone at your gathering—trust me!
Nutritional Facts for Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Calories per cupcake
Each of our delightful lemon lavender cupcakes contains approximately 399 calories. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still offering a touch of sophistication, these cupcakes are a splendid addition to any dessert table.
Key nutritional components
Not only are these cupcakes delicious, but they also provide some essential nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 65.4g
- Protein: 1.9g
- Fat: 14.4g (Saturated Fat: 9g)
- Cholesterol: 54mg
- Sodium: 104mg
- Sugar: 56.8g
With moderate protein and fat levels, your lemon lavender cupcakes can be enjoyed as an occasional treat without compromising your dietary goals. Always remember to savor each bite! For more insights on dessert nutrition, check out resources like the USDA Nutrition Database or Healthline.
FAQs about Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
What can I substitute for lavender if I can't find it?
If you’re in a pinch and can’t find dried lavender, don’t fret! You can substitute it with lemon zest or lemon extract to maintain that citrusy flavor profile. Another option is to use herbal teas that include lemon flavors, such as chamomile or lemon balm. Just remember to keep the quantities moderate, as you don't want to overpower your lemon lavender cupcakes.
How should I store leftover cupcakes?
To keep your lemon lavender cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them for longer, placing them in the refrigerator can extend their life to about a week. Do you enjoy baking in batches for future treats? In that case, you can also freeze the cupcakes for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for about 24 hours. This can be a game-changer for busy schedules! Just make sure to bring the batter back to room temperature before baking for the best results. Have you ever prepped your baking ingredients the night before? It can make cupcake day a breeze.
Conclusion on Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Final Thoughts on Why You Should Try This Recipe!
Don’t miss out on making these delightful lemon lavender cupcakes! Perfect for any occasion, they strike a balance between refreshing and fragrant. The unique combination of zesty lemon and subtle lavender is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Try this recipe today and elevate your dessert game!
Explore more about lavender and its culinary uses here for additional inspiration.
Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
Equipment
- cupcake pan and liners
- large mixing bowl
- stand mixer or hand mixer
- piping bag
- piping tip
Ingredients
Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoon dried lavender buds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter room temp
- 0.75 cup sugar
- 1 large egg room temp
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest zest your lemon before you juice it!
- 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 cup milk room temp
Lemon Frosting
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter room temp (¾ cup)
- 4 tablespoon vegetable shortening
- 4-5 cups powdered confectioners sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream
- 4 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- fresh or dried lavender buds for decoration
Instructions
Lemon Lavender Cupcakes
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
- Mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and lavender buds in a mixing bowl together and set aside.
- In another bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, this takes a few minutes. Beat in the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.
- Add about a third of the dry ingredients and mix them into the butter mixture using a spatula or spoon. Be careful not to over mix, or your cupcakes will be dense. Add half of the milk and mix it in. Add another third of the dry ingredients and combine. Add the rest of the milk and the rest of the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
- Fill liners with batter and bake for 20-22 minutes. Allow the cupcakes to cool for 5 minutes in the pan and then place on a cooling rack to cool completely.
Lemon Buttercream Frosting
- Add the butter and shortening to a mixing bowl and beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. After 4 cups, add the vanilla, milk, lemon juice, and zest. Add more powdered sugar if desired.
- Fill a piping bag with frosting and put some onto each of the cooled cupcakes. After each cupcake has frosting on it, sprinkle with lavender buds so that they stick when the frosting hardens. Enjoy!
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