Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe

Zesty Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe: Sweet Summer Joy

Sweet summer afternoons call for these irresistible lemon blueberry cupcakes that burst with tangy brightness.

Soft, pillowy textures mingle with bright fruit notes in every delightful bite.

Zesty citrus whispers through tender crumb, while plump berries provide unexpected pops of color.

Delicate and sophisticated, these treats promise pure joy on a plate.

Baking becomes an adventure when fresh ingredients dance together in perfect harmony.

Whip up this simple recipe and surprise everyone with a dessert that feels like sunshine.

Indulge and watch smiles bloom with each delectable mouthful.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes: A Fresh Favorite

  • Conquer Weeknight Dinners: This casserole transforms ordinary ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that comes together faster than ordering takeout, making busy evenings a breeze.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients based on what's in your pantry, from different proteins to various types of beans, ensuring you can always create a delicious dinner without a grocery run.
  • Family-Friendly Fiesta: Kids and adults alike will love the bold Mexican-inspired flavors, crispy tortilla layers, and cheesy goodness that make this dish a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes and simple preparation mean less cleanup, letting you spend more quality time with family instead of scrubbing pots and pans after cooking.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Ingredient Essentials

For the Cake Batter:
  • Flour: The foundation of the cupcake that provides structure and texture.
  • Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.
For the Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cupcake batter.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cupcake's structure.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, warm flavor to the cupcakes.
  • Lemon Zest: Brings a bright, citrusy flavor and aromatic quality.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess and complements the lemon zest.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth, moist batter.
For the Fruits and Topping:
  • Blueberries: Fresh berries that add bursts of fruity flavor and natural sweetness.
For the Frosting:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet frosting base.
  • Softened Butter: Provides a creamy texture to the frosting.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor to the frosting.
  • Lemon Zest: Enhances the citrus notes in the frosting.
  • Milk: Helps adjust the frosting's consistency.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Stepwise Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Grab a muffin tin and line it with cute cupcake liners. Warm up your oven to a cozy 350F (175C), creating the perfect baking environment for your sweet adventure.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your dry ingredients in a medium bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Creating a smooth, lump-free base for your cupcakes.

Step 3: Create Creamy Butter Base

In a large mixing bowl, transform butter and sugar into a fluffy cloud-like mixture.

Gently add eggs one by one, then stir in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Fresh lemon zest
  • Lemon juice

Watch the mixture become wonderfully light and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly marry your dry ingredients with the wet mixture.

Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing gently until just combined. Don’t overmix – you want tender cupcakes!

Step 5: Introduce Blueberry Burst

Carefully fold fresh blueberries into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout. These little purple gems will create delightful flavor pockets.

Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners

Scoop the batter into each liner, filling about two-thirds full. This gives your cupcakes room to rise and become beautifully rounded.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Whip Up Lemon Frosting

Beat softened butter until creamy and smooth.

Gradually mix in:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest

Add milk as needed to reach your ideal frosting consistency.

Step 9: Decorate and Serve

Generously frost the cooled cupcakes.

Sprinkle with fresh blueberries and extra lemon zest for a gorgeous finishing touch. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Success Tips

  • Prevent blueberries from sinking by tossing them in a light dusting of flour before folding into the batter.
  • Swap fresh blueberries with frozen ones, but do not thaw them to maintain their shape and prevent color bleeding.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk to ensure smooth and even mixing of the batter.
  • Add extra lemon zest for a more intense citrus flavor, or substitute with orange zest for a different twist.
  • Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, bringing them to room temperature before serving.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes – Fun Flavor Twists

  • Blueberry Lavender Cupcakes: Replace lemon zest with dried lavender, adding a floral note to the classic recipe.
  • Blueberry Almond Cupcakes: Incorporate almond extract and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for a nutty crunch.
  • Gluten-Free Blueberry Cupcakes: Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy.
  • Vegan Blueberry Cupcakes: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free milk to create a compassionate version of the original recipe.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes: Perfect for Brunch

  • Summer Picnic Delight: Pack these zesty cupcakes in a cute carrier for outdoor gatherings. Wrap individually in parchment paper for easy sharing and mess-free transport.
  • Afternoon Tea Elegance: Serve on delicate china plates with a side of fresh berries and herbal tea. Arrange cupcakes on a tiered stand for a sophisticated presentation.
  • Breakfast Brunch Treat: Pair with light yogurt and fresh fruit for a morning sweet indulgence. These cupcakes add a bright, sunny touch to weekend breakfast spreads.
  • Kids' Party Special: Create a blueberry-lemon cupcake decorating station with sprinkles, extra zest, and fun toppings. Children will love personalizing their sweet treats.

Storing Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

  • Place cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping them away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Store frosted cupcakes in a sealed container inside the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covering them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap unfrosted cupcakes individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
  • Remove frozen cupcakes from the freezer, unwrap, and let them defrost at room temperature for 1-2 hours before adding fresh frosting.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just toss them in a little flour before adding to the batter to prevent sinking and bleeding.

  • How do I prevent my blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the cupcake?

Coat the blueberries lightly in flour before folding them into the batter. This helps them stay suspended throughout the cupcake while baking.

  • What if I don't have fresh lemon juice or zest?

You can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best for maximum flavor. If you’re out of fresh lemons, try using orange zest as an alternative citrus option.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Delightful lemon blueberry cupcakes blend tangy citrus with sweet berry notes for a perfect dessert. Moist cake layers and creamy frosting create an irresistible treat you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
  • 2 tbsps fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsps lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup (150 g) fresh blueberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare workspace by setting oven to 350F and arranging cupcake liners in muffin tin.
  2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to eliminate lumps.
  3. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until achieving a light, airy texture. Incorporate eggs individually, then mix in vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well blended.
  4. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, stirring gently to create a smooth, uniform batter.
  5. Carefully fold fresh blueberries into the batter, distributing them evenly without crushing.
  6. Fill cupcake liners approximately two-thirds full with the prepared batter.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes at 350F, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should emerge clean and dry.
  8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting preparation.
  9. Whip softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, adjusting consistency with milk as needed.
  10. Apply frosting generously to cooled cupcakes, garnishing with additional fresh blueberries and lemon zest for visual appeal.

Notes

  • Prevent blueberries from sinking by tossing them in a light dusting of flour before folding into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the cupcakes.
  • Swap out fresh blueberries with frozen ones if needed, but don’t thaw them first to maintain their shape and prevent color bleeding into the batter.
  • Boost lemon flavor by adding an extra teaspoon of lemon zest or a few drops of lemon extract for a more intense citrusy punch.
  • Make the cupcakes gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, ensuring the same tender texture and delicious taste.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 168 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star