Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Lemon Cupcakes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
5. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Raspberry Filling

1. Cook the Filling: In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Cool: Remove from heat and let the raspberry filling cool completely before using.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Frosting

1. Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
3. Incorporate Cream and Lemon: Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Fill the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake. Fill the center with the raspberry filling.
2. Frost: Generously frost each cupcake with the lemon frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
3. Garnish: Top each cupcake with a fresh raspberry and a small slice of lemon for an elegant touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Events: Serve these cupcakes at birthday parties, bridal showers, or garden parties to wow your guests.
• Pair with Beverages: They pair wonderfully with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of sparkling wine for a delightful afternoon treat.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh raspberries and lemon juice will elevate the flavors of your cupcakes.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so mix until just combined.
• Make Ahead: You can make the cupcakes and frosting a day in advance; just frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.

Conclusion

Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes are a delectable treat that brings a burst of brightness to your dessert table. With their moist lemon cupcakes, tangy raspberry filling, and fluffy lemon frosting, these cupcakes are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Whip up a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time! Enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.