Bright Lemon Lavender Cupcakes That Actually Taste Like Spring in a Bite
These Lemon Lavender Cupcakes are a perfect balance of bright citrus and delicate floral notes. Soft, moist, and fragrant, they make an ideal treat for any occasion, from casual tea time to elegant gatherings. With customizable frosting and decoration options, they are as versatile as they are delicious.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 22
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh lavender (or 1 tsp dried culinary lavender)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup plain yogurt
Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: lavender buds for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fold in the lemon zest and finely chopped lavender until evenly incorporated.
- In a small bowl, combine milk and yogurt. Gradually add this mixture to the batter, alternating with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold gently to avoid overmixing.
- Spoon or scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
- Once cupcakes are cooled, pipe or spread frosting on top. Decorate with lavender buds or lemon zest as desired.
Notes
Adjust lavender intensity based on preference.
Use either fresh or dried lavender suitable for culinary use.
Cupcakes can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container.