Lemon Zest Cupcakes with Cream

Name: Lemon Zest Cupcakes with Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Lemon zest for garnish

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

Delightful Lemon Zest Cupcakes topped with a luscious cream that will brighten your day.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-03T02:14:30.446Z

These Lemon Zest Cupcakes with Cream are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Bursting with zesty flavor and topped with a rich cream, they are sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor
Fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for spring gatherings or a cheerful dessert

      

The Joy of Baking with Citrus

Baking with citrus fruits like lemons not only adds a delightful flavor but also brings a vibrant color to your desserts. The zest of the lemon infuses the batter with a fresh aroma that fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. These Lemon Zest Cupcakes are perfect for those who appreciate the balance of sweet and tart. The natural acidity of lemons brightens up the sweetness of the cupcakes, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Adding lemon zest to your baking is a simple way to elevate your recipes. The essential oils in the zest contribute to a more complex flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste without the need for artificial flavorings. As you bake these cupcakes, you’ll notice how the citrus notes brighten the flavor, making them an excellent choice for any occasion, especially spring and summer celebrations.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you are hosting a spring gathering, a birthday party, or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these Lemon Zest Cupcakes fit the bill perfectly. Their cheerful appearance and light texture make them a crowd-pleaser. You can easily dress them up with decorative toppings or serve them plain for a more rustic look. They are versatile enough to suit any occasion, from elegant tea parties to casual family get-togethers.

These cupcakes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are also a feast for the eyes. Topped with a luscious cream and garnished with lemon zest, they create an impressive dessert display. Guests will be drawn to their bright color and will be pleasantly surprised by the burst of lemon flavor, making them a memorable addition to your dessert table.

Tips for Baking Success

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk

For the Cream Topping

1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lemon zest for garnish

Mix well and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.

Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest and vanilla.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Prepare the Cream Topping

While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once cupcakes are cool, generously frost each with the whipped cream and garnish with additional lemon zest.

Let the cupcakes sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to mingle.

Storing Your Cupcakes

Once your Lemon Zest Cupcakes are frosted, they can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. However, if you want to preserve their freshness for a longer period, consider refrigerating them. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out and absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. The frosting may lose some of its fluffiness in the fridge, but the cupcakes will still taste delicious.

If you have leftover cupcakes, they can also be frozen. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours. You can re-whip the cream topping if you desire a fresh texture before serving.

Variations to Try

While the classic Lemon Zest Cupcake is delightful as is, you can also experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. For a berry twist, consider adding fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a burst of flavor and color. You could also infuse the cream topping with a hint of lavender or mint for an aromatic experience.

If you're looking for a healthier version, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added nutrients. You might also reduce the sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. These variations can make your cupcakes not only delicious but also a little more nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flavor instead of lemon?

Yes, you can substitute lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them just before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.