Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of bright, zesty lemon and sweet, tangy raspberry that creates an irresistible flavor duo. These Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes bring together the best of both worlds in a fluffy, moist cupcake that’s perfect for any celebration or sweet craving.

I’ve perfected this recipe over countless baking sessions, and I can confidently say these cupcakes will become your new favorite treat. The tender lemon-infused cake paired with a surprise burst of raspberry jam creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

What are Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes?

Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes are tender, citrus-scented cupcakes filled with a dollop of raspberry jam and topped with creamy lemon buttercream frosting. The cupcakes feature a light, fluffy texture enhanced by fresh lemon zest and juice, creating a bright base that perfectly complements the sweet-tart raspberry filling.

The beauty of these cupcakes lies in their layered flavors – each bite delivers the sunshine brightness of lemon followed by the rich sweetness of raspberry jam, all wrapped in a perfectly moist crumb. They’re elegant enough for special occasions yet simple enough for everyday indulgence.

Ingredients List for Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup whole milk, room temperature
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 large lemons)
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup high-quality raspberry jam

For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon salt
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed)
Yellow food coloring (optional)

For Garnish:

Fresh raspberries
Additional lemon zest
Mint leaves (optional)

How to Make Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful cupcakes involves several key steps that build layers of flavor and ensure perfect texture. Here’s my detailed guide to help you achieve bakery-quality results:

1. Prepare Your Kitchen:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Bring all dairy ingredients to room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
Zest your lemons before juicing them to make the process easier and more efficient.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent throughout the flour.
Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer.
Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.
This step incorporates air into the batter, creating the cupcakes’ tender texture.

4. Add Eggs and Flavorings:

Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Mix in vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
The mixture might look slightly curdled at this point, which is completely normal.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk mixture to the creamed butter.
Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition.
Fold in the sour cream gently to maintain the batter’s light texture.

6. Fill and Bake:

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
Use an ice cream scoop for consistent portioning and professional-looking results.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Add the Raspberry Filling:

Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before filling.
Use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake.
Fill each cavity with about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam, being careful not to overfill.

8. Prepare the Lemon Buttercream:

Beat softened butter until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in lemon juice, zest, and salt, then add cream as needed for desired consistency.

9. Frost and Garnish:

Pipe or spread the lemon buttercream onto each filled cupcake.
Top with fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest for beautiful presentation.
Add mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create unique variations of these cupcakes. Here are some substitutions you can try:

Flour: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an even more tender crumb, reducing the amount to 1½ cups.
Jam Flavors: Try strawberry, blackberry, or mixed berry jam for different flavor combinations.
Citrus Variations: Replace lemon with lime or orange for a completely different citrus experience.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, adding an extra ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum if not included.
Reduced Sugar: Replace half the granulated sugar with unsweetened applesauce for a slightly healthier version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Through my baking experience, I’ve identified several common pitfalls that can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overmixing the Batter: This develops the gluten too much, resulting in tough, dense cupcakes instead of light and fluffy ones.
Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend more easily and create a smoother, more uniform batter.
Overfilling the Liners: This causes the cupcakes to overflow and creates uneven tops that are difficult to frost.
Opening the Oven Door Too Early: This can cause the cupcakes to sink in the middle due to temperature fluctuations.
Filling Hot Cupcakes: Adding jam to warm cupcakes will cause it to melt and create a soggy texture.

How to Serve Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes

These cupcakes are versatile and perfect for various occasions. I love serving them at spring gatherings, birthday parties, or as an elegant dessert for brunch. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or a cup of Earl Grey tea.

For special events, arrange them on a tiered stand with fresh flowers and berries for an impressive display. The bright colors make them particularly stunning for Easter celebrations, baby showers, or summer garden parties.

Presentation Ideas for Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes

Creating an eye-catching presentation elevates these cupcakes from simple treats to stunning desserts:

Elegant Piping: Use a star tip to create rosettes of buttercream, then top each with a fresh raspberry.
Naked Style: Apply a thin layer of frosting for a rustic, homemade appearance that showcases the cupcake’s texture.
Drizzle Effect: Create a raspberry drizzle by thinning jam with a little water and drizzling over the frosted cupcakes.
Seasonal Garnish: Add edible flowers in spring or sugared cranberries during winter for seasonal appeal.

Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes Recipe Tips

Here are my professional tips for achieving the best results every time:

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use real vanilla extract, fresh lemons, and high-quality jam for the best flavor impact.
Room Temperature Test: Ingredients are at proper temperature when you can leave a fingerprint in butter or when eggs don’t feel cold to the touch.
Proper Measuring: Level your flour measurements and use a kitchen scale for most accurate results.
Jam Selection: Choose a jam with visible fruit pieces for better texture and more intense flavor.
Storage Prep: If making ahead, wrap unfrosted cupcakes tightly and frost just before serving for best texture.

How to Store Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes

Proper storage maintains the cupcakes’ freshness and prevents the frosting from becoming too soft or the cake from drying out. Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing them to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

Unfrosted cupcakes can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months when wrapped individually in plastic wrap and placed in freezer bags. The buttercream frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator, then re-whipped before use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these cupcakes without the jam filling?
A: Absolutely! The lemon cupcakes are delicious on their own with just the lemon buttercream frosting. You can also add lemon curd as an alternative filling.

Q: How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
A: The cupcakes are done when they spring back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Q: Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?
A: Fresh or frozen raspberries won’t provide the same concentrated sweetness and thick consistency as jam. Stick with jam for the best results.

Q: What’s the best way to get smooth buttercream?
A: Ensure your butter is properly softened and sift the powdered sugar to eliminate lumps. Beat the mixture longer than you think necessary for ultra-smooth results.

Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Yes, this recipe doubles well. You’ll need two 12-cup muffin tins and may need to bake in batches depending on your oven size.

Q: How can I make the cupcakes more lemony?
A: Add an extra tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter and a few drops of lemon extract along with the vanilla for more intense lemon flavor.

Conclusion

These Lemon Raspberry Jam Cupcakes represent the perfect balance of bright citrus and sweet berry flavors in a tender, moist cupcake that’s sure to impress. I’ve found that the combination of fresh lemon zest, tangy raspberry jam, and creamy buttercream creates a symphony of flavors that appeals to both adults and children alike.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delicious taste, but also in its versatility and visual appeal. Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply want to brighten someone’s day, these cupcakes deliver both flavor and joy in every bite. Take your time with each step, use quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to add your own creative touches to make them uniquely yours. Happy baking!