Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the sweet-tart burst of fresh raspberries. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from summer parties to birthdays. They are not just delicious; they also look absolutely stunning when decorated with creamy frosting and fresh fruit. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a homemade dessert that will wow every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
There are countless reasons to adore these Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes. First, they are incredibly moist and fluffy, thanks to the combination of sour cream and cake flour. Second, they boast a vibrant flavor profile, thanks to the addition of lemon zest and juice. Third, these cupcakes can be easily made from scratch, making this Best Lemon Raspberry Cupcake recipe a go-to for home bakers. Additionally, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round, whether at summer gatherings or birthday celebrations. Lastly, the use of fresh raspberries elevates the flavor and texture, making every bite a refreshing experience!
Ingredients for Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
Gather these items:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
How to Make Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners and preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Step 2: Rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar until it resembles wet sand.
- Step 3: In a stand mixer, whisk together cake flour, lemon sugar, finely chopped pistachios, baking powder, and sea salt. Blend in the cubed butter on low speed for about 3 minutes until it looks like coarse sand.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, whole milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well blended.
- Step 5: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix for just a few seconds until everything is combined, then scrape down the bowl and mix until no dry flour is visible.
- Step 6: Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Step 7: Bake the cupcakes for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Step 8: Let the pan cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before removing the cupcakes to cool completely.
- Step 9: In a medium saucepan, cook raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Mash occasionally for about 10-12 minutes.
- Step 10: Stir in cornstarch mixed with water, cooking for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Step 11: Beat unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue beating until light and fluffy.
- Step 12: Core the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with raspberry compote. Pipe the lemon buttercream around the core and add more raspberry filling in the center. Garnish with chopped pistachios and fresh raspberries.
Pro Tips for the Best Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- To enhance the lemon flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest.
- For a different twist, try making Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.
Best Ways to Serve Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
These cupcakes are perfect for various occasions. Serve them at summer parties as a refreshing dessert, or enjoy them at birthday celebrations for a delightful treat. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience or serve them alongside a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The Delicious Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes will surely impress your guests!
How to Store and Reheat Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy the moistness again. This is a great option for meal prep, as you can make these cupcakes in advance and enjoy them later!
Frequently Asked Questions About Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes
What’s the secret to perfect Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes?
The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially the fresh raspberries, and not overmixing the batter, which helps keep them light and fluffy.
Can I make Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake these cupcakes a day in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes?
Always measure your ingredients accurately and ensure your oven is preheated. Avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking to ensure even cooking.
Variations of Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes You Can Try
If you want to mix things up, try making Vegan Lemon Raspberry Cupcake recipe by substituting eggs with flaxseed meal and using non-dairy milk. For a gluten-free option, replace the cake flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also experiment with different frostings, such as Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes with buttercream frosting or even a light whipped cream topping. The possibilities are endless with these moist Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars or Raspberry Cheesecake Cookies. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your cupcakes, try this Lemonade recipe!
Print
Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes: 12 Flavors That Wow
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Scratch Lemon Raspberry Cupcakes That Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pistachios
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions
- Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners and preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Rub the lemon zest into the granulated sugar until it resembles wet sand.
- In a stand mixer, whisk together cake flour, lemon sugar, finely chopped pistachios, baking powder, and sea salt. Blend in the cubed butter on low speed for about 3 minutes until it looks like coarse sand.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, whole milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well blended.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix for just a few seconds until everything is combined, then scrape down the bowl and mix until no dry flour is visible.
- Scoop the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake the cupcakes for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Let the pan cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before removing the cupcakes to cool completely.
- In a medium saucepan, cook raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice over medium heat. Mash occasionally for about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in cornstarch mixed with water, cooking for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
- Beat unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Continue beating until light and fluffy.
- Core the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with raspberry compote. Pipe the lemon buttercream around the core and add more raspberry filling in the center. Garnish with chopped pistachios and fresh raspberries.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg

