- Blueberries: Fresh or frozen (ensure to thaw and drain if using frozen)
- All-purpose flour: For the cupcake batter, essential for texture
- Granulated sugar: Main sweetener, perfect for cupcakes and frosting
- Baking powder: Leavener to help cakes rise, key ingredient in baking
- Salt: A pinch to enhance other flavors, commonly used in desserts
- Unsalted butter: For flavor and texture in the batter
- Whole milk: Adds moisture to the cupcake batter; use low-fat or skim for a lighter option
- Eggs: Provides structure and binds ingredients together
- Lemon zest: From 1-2 lemons, adds a fresh citrus note, great for frosting
- Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and provides depth
- Cream cheese: Foundation of the frosting, essential ingredient
- Confectioners' sugar: Fine granulated sugar used to make frosting smooth and fluffy
- Butter: Adds richness to the cream cheese frosting; use unsalted for better control over saltiness
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon, balances the sweetness in the frosting with a tangy flavor
- Heavy whipping cream: Optional, can be substituted with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version
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Steps
## Blueberry Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: A Delicious Treat
### Introduction
Looking for a delightful twist on classic cupcakes? This recipe will guide you through creating a decadent Blueberry Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting that’s sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of sweet, juicy blueberries and tangy lemon cream cheese frosting makes these cupcakes a perfect treat.
### Ingredients
#### For the Cupcakes:
- 1 3/4 cups (200g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup (2 sticks, 226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (75g) fresh blueberries
#### For the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Zest of one lemon
### Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
1. **Preheat Oven and Line a Cupcake Pan:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a standard-sized cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl on medium speed for about 1 minute. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. **Add Eggs and Lemon Juice:** Add one egg at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the blueberries (gently fold in last to avoid breaking them). The batter should be thick but smooth.
#### Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
1. **Fill Cupcake Liners:** Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners.
2. **Bake:** Place the pan in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
#### Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
1. **Cream Cheese and Butter:** In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth.
2. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps.
3. **Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice:** Stir in the lemon zest and juice, ensuring they are fully incorporated.
#### Step 4: Assemble and Serve
1. **Cool Cupcakes:** Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
2. **Frosting Application:** Once cooled, use an offset spatula or piping bag to apply generous dollops of lemon cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake. Garnish with additional blueberries if desired.
### Tips and Variations
- For extra flavor, add a few drops of blue food coloring to the frosting.
- Consider adding finely chopped almonds for a crunchy texture.
- Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for up to 2 months.
### Conclusion
Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting! These delectable treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or simply treating yourself. The bright flavors will make these cupcakes a favorite among both kids and adults alike.