Lemon Thyme Rosemary Cupcakes Recipe
These Lemon Thyme Rosemary Cupcakes are a delightful blend of citrusy lemon and aromatic fresh herbs, perfect for a sophisticated twist on classic cupcakes. Soft, moist, and bursting with herbal notes, they make an excellent treat for afternoon tea or special occasions.
- Author: Mick
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
Optional Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure they are well combined and aerated for a light cupcake texture.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for texture.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine and avoid curdling.
- Incorporate Lemon and Herbs: Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped thyme, and rosemary to the wet mixture, ensuring the herbal and citrus flavors are evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry mix, blending gently after each addition until the batter is smooth but not overmixed.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each about two-thirds full with the batter to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting (Optional): Beat softened butter until creamy, gradually add powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and continue beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes have cooled completely, frost with the lemon buttercream using a piping bag or spatula as desired.
Notes
- Fresh herbs provide the best flavor; ensure they are finely chopped to avoid large chunks in the cupcakes.
- You can substitute rosemary or thyme with other fresh herbs like basil or lavender for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the batter by 1/4 cup.
- These cupcakes keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
Keywords: lemon cupcakes, herbal cupcakes, thyme rosemary cupcakes, lemon thyme rosemary cupcakes, lemon herb dessert