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Lemon Buttercream Frosting for Cakes and Cupcakes Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: Frosting for 12 cupcakes or one 8-inch cake
  • Category: Frosting
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A luscious and tangy lemon buttercream frosting perfect for enhancing the flavor of cakes and cupcakes. This creamy frosting combines fresh lemon juice and zest with smooth buttercream, offering a bright citrus twist to your desserts.


Ingredients

Scale

Buttercream Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 teaspoons heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt


Instructions

  1. Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter for about 2 minutes until it becomes creamy and smooth.
  2. Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid creating a sugar cloud. Once incorporated, increase speed to medium and mix until the sugar is fully combined with the butter.
  3. Add Flavorings: Pour in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, heavy cream or milk, and a pinch of salt into the butter-sugar mixture.
  4. Beat until Fluffy: Beat the mixture on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
  5. Adjust Consistency: If needed, add more powdered sugar to thicken the frosting or add a teaspoon more cream to soften it.
  6. Use or Store: Use the frosting immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Bring refrigerated frosting to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Notes

  • For extra lemon flavor, add an additional teaspoon of lemon zest.
  • This frosting pairs beautifully with vanilla, lemon, or almond cakes.
  • If refrigerated, allow frosting to reach room temperature and re-whip before applying for best texture.