xxscj1678
Culinary Explorer
Hi there! Looking for a delightful treat to brighten your day? 
These Strawberry-Lemonade Cupcakes are just what you need! Bursting with citrusy lemon zest and sweet strawberry jam, they're a perfect blend of flavors. Plus, they're super easy to make! Give them a try and treat yourself to a tasty delight!
Strawberry-Lemonade Cupcakes
Ingredients:
- 24 paper baking cups
- 1 (15.25-oz.) pkg. white cake mix (such as Pillsbury)
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest plus 2 tablespoons fresh juice (from 1 lemon)
- 1 3/4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon yellow liquid food coloring (optional)
- 3/4 cup (6 oz.) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup seedless strawberry jam (from 1 [18-oz.] jar)
- 4 1/2 cups (about 18 oz.) powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh strawberry halves
Directions:
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Preheat oven to 350ยฐF. Place paper baking cups in 2 (12-cup) standard muffin pans.
- Make Batter: Prepare cake batter according to package directions; stir in lemon zest and juice, 1 teaspoon of the vanilla, and, if desired, food coloring until combined.
- Bake Cupcakes: Spoon batter into baking cups, filling each about halfway (about 1/4 cup batter in each). Bake both pans at once in preheated oven until a wooden pick inserted in center of cupcakes comes out clean, 19 to 23 minutes, rotating pans halfway through. Let cool in pans 5 minutes. Remove cupcakes from pans to wire racks, and let cool completely, 15 to 20 minutes.
- Make Frosting: Beat butter, strawberry jam, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon vanilla in a medium bowl with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. With mixer on low, gradually add powdered sugar and salt, beating until smooth, about 1 minute. Transfer frosting to a piping bag, Snip 1 corner of bag to make a 1-inch hole, and pipe frosting onto cooled cupcakes; garnish with strawberry halves.
Hope you enjoy baking these delightful Strawberry-Lemonade Cupcakes as much as I did!
The tangy lemon zest perfectly complements the sweet strawberry jam frosting, making each bite a burst of flavor! Share them with friends or indulge in a solo treat โ either way, it's pure bliss! Happy baking! 
