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Lemon Cream Cheese Cupcake Frosting

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Lemon Cream Cheese Cupcake Frosting

Get ready to transform your ordinary cupcakes into extraordinary culinary masterpieces with this irresistible lemon cream cheese frosting! Imagine a velvety smooth, tangy-sweet topping that perfectly balances creamy richness with bright citrus notes - this recipe is about to become your secret weapon in the dessert world. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof frosting will elevate your cupcakes from good to absolutely mind-blowing!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings

Ingredients

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 3 cups powdered sugar
  4. 2 tbsp lemon juice
  5. 1 tsp lemon zest
  6. 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Remove cream cheese and butter from refrigerator 30-45 minutes before preparing to ensure they are completely softened at room temperature.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fully combined, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  3. Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing on low speed to prevent sugar from spraying out of the bowl.
  4. Continue mixing until powdered sugar is fully incorporated and the frosting begins to become smooth and creamy.
  5. Add fresh lemon juice and carefully grate lemon zest directly into the frosting mixture.
  6. Pour in vanilla extract and mix on medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and the frosting reaches a light, fluffy consistency.
  7. Pause mixing and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
  8. If frosting seems too thick, add additional lemon juice 1 teaspoon at a time. If too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar.
  9. Transfer frosting to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip, or use an offset spatula to spread smoothly onto cupcakes.
  10. Refrigerate frosted cupcakes or store frosting in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tips

  1. Temperature is Key: Always let cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting.
  2. Gradual Sugar Addition: Add powdered sugar slowly to prevent messy sugar clouds and achieve a silky texture.
  3. Zesting Hack: Use a fine grater or microplane when adding lemon zest to get maximum flavor without bitter white pith.
  4. Consistency Control: If the frosting is too thick, add lemon juice in tiny increments. If too thin, sprinkle in more powdered sugar.
  5. Piping Pro Tip: For picture-perfect cupcakes, use a star-tipped piping bag and practice a circular motion for professional-looking swirls.
  6. Storage Wisdom: Refrigerate frosted cupcakes and consume within 3 days for maximum freshness and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250kcal

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 2g

Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 10g

Cholesterol: 50mg

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