0.5cupsunsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1cupsgranulated sugar
2largeeggs, at room temperature
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1teaspoonfinely grated lemon zest
0.5cupsfresh lemon juice, freshly squeezed
0.5cupsbuttermilk, at room temperature
1cupsfresh strawberries, pureed until smooth
0.5cupspowdered sugar (for frosting)
1teaspoonlemon juice (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly blended and set the bowl aside.
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the fresh lemon juice and buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture alternately with the previously prepared dry ingredients. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the pureed strawberries until fully blended.
Carefully spoon the cupcake batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each one about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar with the lemon juice in a small bowl. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, generously frost each one with the lemon frosting. For an extra touch, garnish each cupcake with a slice of fresh strawberry on top.
Notes
For an extra touch, garnish each cupcake with a slice of fresh strawberry.