Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes (Print Version)

Light cupcakes with tangy raspberries and zesty lemon, finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting.

# Ingredients:

→ Cupcake Base

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 cup whole milk
09 - 1 cup fresh raspberries
10 - Zest of 2 lemons

→ Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

11 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
12 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
13 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
14 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
15 - 2 teaspoons lemon zest

→ Decoration

16 - Fresh raspberries, for garnish

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
02 - Using an electric mixer, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter with granulated sugar for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
04 - Blend in vanilla extract, zest of 2 lemons, and whole milk until fully incorporated.
05 - In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
06 - Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients in two additions until just combined.
07 - Toss fresh raspberries in 1 tablespoon of flour and gently fold into the batter.
08 - Evenly distribute batter among prepared liners, filling each about three-quarters full.
09 - Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until tops spring back when lightly pressed.
10 - Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11 - Using a mixer, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter with cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
12 - Add sifted powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest; beat until frosting is fluffy.
13 - Frost cooled cupcakes and garnish with fresh raspberries and extra lemon zest as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for optimal batter and frosting texture.
02 - Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light crumb.