Homemade Lemon Cupcakes

Name: Homemade Lemon Cupcakes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 Tablespoon lemon zest; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or buttermilk, at room temperature; 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice; optional filling: homemade lemon curd, cooled completely; 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 4 cups (480g) confectioners’ sugar, plus more as needed; 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream, half-and-half, or whole milk, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste; salt, to taste; optional for garnish: lemon slices and/or mint sprigs

Instructions

Prep:25minCook:20min

These homemade lemon cupcakes are soft, buttery, and packed with fresh lemon flavor, especially when filled with lemon curd! Made with fresh lemon zest and juice, the bright citrus taste is balanced by a sweet, creamy vanilla buttercream on top. If you’re looking for an easy lemon cupcake recipe that’s moist, tender, and reliable, your search ends here.

Updated at: Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:03:45 GMT