Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe

Sweet & Tangy Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe for Joyful Baking

Whipping up delectable lemon blueberry cupcakes can transport you to a summer afternoon of pure delight.

Bursting with zesty citrus and sweet berry notes, these treats promise a flavor explosion.

Each bite offers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet ingredients.

Soft, moist cake layers complement the bright fruit perfectly.

Light frosting adds a creamy finish that makes these cupcakes irresistible.

Home bakers will find this recipe surprisingly simple to master.

You’ll want to share these delightful little cakes with everyone you know.

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes: Fresh and Fruity

  • Burst with Seasonal Flavors: Capture the essence of summer with a delightful combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries that dance together in every single bite.
  • Whip Up with Minimal Fuss: Create bakery-quality cupcakes without complicated techniques, making this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels from beginners to seasoned pros.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Impress family and friends with a versatile treat that works beautifully for casual gatherings, potlucks, birthdays, or simply as a delicious afternoon snack.
  • Transform Ordinary Moments: Elevate your everyday baking routine with a recipe that brings bright, refreshing flavors and a touch of homemade elegance to your kitchen.

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cupcake's soft and tender texture.
  • Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a light, moist crumb.
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds rich flavor and contributes to the cupcake's tender structure.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cupcakes.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk or Buttermilk, Lemon Juice: Adds moisture and helps activate the leavening agents.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cupcakes.
Leavening and Seasoning:
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt: Help the cupcakes rise and balance the flavors.
Fruit and Zest:
  • Fresh Blueberries, Lemon Zest: Add bright, fresh flavor and natural sweetness to the cupcakes.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter: Create a rich and creamy base for the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps achieve the right frosting consistency.
Frosting Flavor Enhancers:
  • Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, Vanilla Extract: Add brightness and depth to the cream cheese frosting.
Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh Blueberries, Lemon Zest Curls, Mint Sprigs: Provide a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Guide

Step-by-Step Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Guide

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to a cozy 350F (175C).

Line a muffin tin with cheerful cupcake liners, creating little homes for your soon-to-be delicious treats.

Step 2: Create Dry Blend

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Set this powdery mixture aside for later magic.

Step 3: Whip Butter and Sugar

Grab a large bowl and transform butter and sugar into a fluffy cloud of deliciousness.

Beat in eggs one by one, then splash in:
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until everything looks light and dreamy.

Step 4: Combine Liquid Elements

Gently pour in milk or buttermilk, stirring until smooth and harmonious.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Worlds

Slowly introduce dry ingredients to wet mixture.

Stir gently, stopping just as everything comes together – overmixing is a cupcake’s worst enemy!

Step 6: Blueberry Dance

Toss blueberries with a sprinkle of flour, then tenderly fold them into the batter.

Let them waltz through the mixture without sinking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Distribute batter evenly among cupcake liners.

Slide into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes.

They’re done when a toothpick emerges clean and happy.

Step 8: Whip Up Dreamy Frosting

Beat butter and cream cheese until silky smooth.

Gradually welcome:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Vanilla extract

Whip until the frosting looks light and irresistible.

Step 9: Final Flourish

Once cupcakes cool completely, crown them with lemon cream cheese frosting.

For extra pizzazz, sprinkle with fresh blueberries, lemon zest curls, or a tiny mint sprig.

Pro Tips for Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

  • Toss berries in flour before adding to batter to ensure even distribution throughout the cupcakes.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant, bright citrus notes in both cake and frosting.
  • Insert a toothpick into the center of cupcakes – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs, avoiding overbaking.
  • Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
  • Keep frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, bringing to room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try on Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

  • Gluten-Free Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend flour for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Berry Cupcakes: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and cream cheese frosting with cashew-based frosting for a plant-based alternative.
  • Low-Sugar Citrus Cupcakes: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of granulated sugar, and reduce overall sugar content while maintaining delicious flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free Zesty Cupcakes: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, use dairy-free margarine, and create coconut cream-based frosting for lactose-intolerant bakers.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

  • Summer Picnic Perfection: Pack these cupcakes in a cute carrier for outdoor gatherings with friends and family. Their vibrant flavors and portable size make them an ideal dessert for park outings or beach trips.
  • Afternoon Tea Delight: Serve these elegant cupcakes on a beautiful platter alongside classic tea sandwiches and scones. The tangy lemon and sweet blueberry complement traditional tea time treats wonderfully.
  • Brunch Centerpiece: Arrange the cupcakes on a decorative stand as a stunning centerpiece for weekend brunch. Their bright colors and delicate frosting will impress guests and add a touch of sweetness to the meal.
  • Dessert Gift Idea: Package individual cupcakes in clear boxes with ribbons for a charming homemade gift. They're perfect for birthdays, thank-you presents, or just showing someone you care with a delicious treat.

Best Storage for Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes

  • Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap unfrosted cupcakes individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
  • Place frosted cupcakes on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed cupcakes briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain moisture and texture.

FAQs

  • Why toss blueberries in flour before adding to batter?

Coating blueberries with flour prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cupcakes during baking, ensuring even distribution throughout the cupcake.

  • Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just don’t thaw them before adding to the batter and reduce baking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

  • How do I know when the cupcakes are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cupcakes are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.

Print
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Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

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

Description

Delightful lemon blueberry cupcakes blend zesty citrus with sweet berries in a perfect summer treat. Creamy frosting and fresh blueberries crown these light, flavorful cupcakes you’ll want to savor with friends.


Ingredients

Scale

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup (80ml) whole milk or buttermilk
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) fresh lemon juice

Baking Essentials:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing blueberries)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and arrange cupcake liners in a 12-cup muffin tin.
  2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, then set aside.
  3. Whip softened butter and granulated sugar until achieving a light, airy texture in a large mixing bowl.
  4. Incorporate eggs individually, then blend in lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract thoroughly.
  5. Gradually introduce milk or buttermilk to the mixture, ensuring smooth integration.
  6. Carefully fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated without overmixing.
  7. Coat blueberries with flour to prevent sinking, then delicately fold into the batter.
  8. Distribute batter evenly across cupcake liners, filling approximately two-thirds full.
  9. Bake for 18-22 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick that should emerge clean when inserted into the center.
  10. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  11. Cream butter and cream cheese until smooth and uniform in a large mixing bowl.
  12. Gradually add powdered sugar, then incorporate lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.
  13. Continue beating until frosting becomes light and fluffy with a spreadable consistency.
  14. Apply frosting generously to cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or offset spatula.
  15. Optional: Embellish with fresh blueberries, delicate lemon zest curls, or mint sprigs for a sophisticated finish.

Notes

  • Prevent blueberries from sinking by coating them lightly in flour before adding to the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the cupcakes.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk to create a smoother, more consistent batter that rises evenly during baking.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cupcakes tender and light; stop mixing as soon as the dry and wet ingredients are just combined.
  • Swap ingredients for dietary needs: use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly version, or replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 213 kcal
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 105 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 41 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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