0.5cupunsalted butter, softened at room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
2largeeggs, at room temperature
1mediumzest of lemon
0.25cupfreshly squeezed lemon juice
0.5cupbuttermilk, at room temperature
1cupfresh raspberries (reserve some for decoration)
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard muffin tin by lining it with colorful cupcake liners.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this flour mixture aside to keep it airy.
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Beat on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale.
Add the eggs to the creamed butter one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the lemon zest and pure vanilla extract, blending until evenly mixed.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly by curdling, which adds flavor and moisture.
Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Begin with the flour mixture and finish with it too. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep your cupcakes tender.
Carefully fold in the fresh raspberries using a spatula, taking care not to crush them to preserve their shape and texture.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each liner about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end!
Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a delightful finish, frost with creamy lemon buttercream icing and top with a fresh raspberry.