Imagine biting into a cupcake that transports you to a sunny paradise with every single mouthful! These Honey Lemon Cupcakes with Dried Pineapple Flowers are not just a dessert; they're a culinary adventure that combines the golden sweetness of honey, the bright zestiness of lemon, and the elegant tropical touch of pineapple flowers. Perfect for those who crave a sophisticated yet playful dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes, these cupcakes are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Dried pineapple flowers for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with honey using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, top each cupcake with a dried pineapple flower for a decorative and delicious finish.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients like butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother, more even batter.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your cupcakes tender and light.
- Precise Measuring: Use proper measuring techniques - spoon flour into measuring cups and level with a knife for accurate results.
- Pineapple Flower Prep: Make dried pineapple flowers in advance by thinly slicing pineapple and baking at a low temperature until they curl and dry.
- Check for Doneness: Always use the toothpick test - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let cupcakes cool completely before decorating to prevent frosting from melting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg