Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

Moist and delicious, Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting are the perfect treat for any spring or summer occasion. These delightful cupcakes feature a fresh lemon curd filling and are topped with creamy blueberry buttercream frosting. Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes will impress your family and friends with their vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright flavors: The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have delicious cupcakes without the fuss.
• Versatile for occasions: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just because—you’ll find these cupcakes fit any celebration.
• Beautiful presentation: Topped with fresh blueberries, these cupcakes look as good as they taste.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the lemon curd and blueberry puree in advance for a stress-free baking experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand makes it easier to follow the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Cupcake pan
• Paper liners
• Piping bags
• Mesh strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, helping achieve that light and fluffy texture.
• Cupcake pan: Essential for shaping your cupcakes perfectly every time.
• Piping bags: Allow you to frost cakes neatly and decorate with precision.

Ingredients

Moist homemade lemon cupcakes with fresh lemon curd filling and blueberry buttercream frosting. A fun treat for any spring or summer occasion!

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 C blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/4 C granulated sugar
– 1/4 C unsalted butter (softened)
– 1/2 C granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp lemon extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 Tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
– 1 1/4 C all-purpose flour
– 1/2 C sour cream
– Lemon curd (see notes)
– 1 C unsalted butter (softened)
– 3 C powdered sugar
– 3 Tbsp blueberry puree (see above)

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

Prepare the lemon curd ahead as directed. Keep it chilled until ready to use.

Step 2: Make Blueberry Puree

To prepare blueberry puree:
In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar.
Cook over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
Once berries soften, mash them with a potato masher.
Continue cooking until the mixture thickens.
Strain through a mesh strainer into a clean bowl.
Allow the puree to cool before using it in frosting.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a standard cupcake pan with 9 paper liners.

Step 4: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl or stand mixer:
Cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the eggs, lemon extract, zest, and juice. Scrape the bowl as needed.
Add salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
Alternate adding flour and sour cream until fully combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide batter equally between prepared cups using a large cookie scoop or filling them about 2/3 full.
Bake for 16–18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Fill Cupcakes with Lemon Curd

Once cooled:
Core each cupcake carefully using a sharp knife or cupcake corer without cutting through the bottom.
Fill each cupcake with chilled lemon curd using a piping bag.

Step 7: Prepare Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

In another bowl or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
Beat softened butter while gradually adding powdered sugar one cup at a time.
Scrape the bowl as needed. Drizzle in blueberry puree one tablespoon at a time while increasing speed between additions until fully combined.

Step 8: Frost Your Cupcakes

Transfer frosting to a piping bag fitted with your desired tip. Frost each cupcake generously and top with fresh blueberries before serving.

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for several days. Enjoy every bite of these delightful Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting!

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

These delightful Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a sunny afternoon, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your cupcakes topped with fresh blueberries and raspberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Iced Tea

• Complement the bright flavors of the cupcakes with a refreshing glass of iced tea, such as lemon or berry-flavored varieties.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light texture and creamy contrast to the sweet cupcakes.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cupcakes alongside other desserts like mini cheesecakes or fruit tarts for a visually appealing dessert table.

Serve at Room Temperature

• Allow your cupcakes to sit at room temperature before serving to enhance their flavor and texture.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Adding fresh mint leaves on top can elevate the presentation and introduce a refreshing herbal note.

How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

To achieve the best results when making your Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons and blueberries to enhance the flavor of your cupcakes.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cupcakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense textures.
• Cool Completely: Ensure the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting them. This prevents the frosting from melting.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your blueberry puree before adding it to the frosting; you may want to adjust the sugar based on your preference.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist in both the batter and frosting.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cupcakes in an airtight container to maintain their moisture for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

These Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their citrusy sweetness. Here are some excellent options.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance alongside the rich flavors of cupcakes.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses such as brie or goat cheese, which offer a creamy contrast that pairs well with sweet treats.
3. Savory Scones: Cheddar or herb scones can add a savory element, creating an enjoyable contrast with sweet cupcakes.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in cups for a wholesome side that enhances the cupcake experience.
5. Mini Quiches: These can provide a savory bite that complements the sweetness of your dessert without overpowering it.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These indulgent treats add elegance and pair beautifully with lemon flavors.
7. Pistachio Cookies: The nutty flavor of pistachios offers an interesting contrast while keeping within light dessert themes.
8. Lemonade or Sparkling Water: Offer refreshing beverages that echo the lemony notes in your cupcakes, enhancing their overall appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your baking experience is smooth and successful.

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect the batter consistency. Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal results.
• Not measuring accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cupcakes. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling step: Filling warm cupcakes with lemon curd can make it runny. Allow them to cool completely before filling.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Stale ingredients affect flavor. Always use fresh blueberries and lemon juice for the best taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep frosting separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

• Freeze cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then warm cupcakes for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a covered pan on low heat, checking frequently, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries directly without thawing. They may release more moisture, but they will still add great flavor.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt works well as a substitute and will keep the cupcakes moist and flavorful.

How do I store leftover Blueberry Buttercream Frosting?

Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Re-whip before using again.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes with Blueberry Buttercream Frosting are a delightful treat perfect for spring and summer events. Their refreshing flavors make them versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different fruits or experimenting with flavors!