Lemon Curd Cupcakes

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners and set aside.

3. Step 3

   Beat the sugar and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat to combine.

5. Step 5

   Mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.

6. Step 6

   Add in the flour mixture to the stand mixer bowl alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour.

7. Step 7

   Mix in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula to make sure all ingredients are combined..

8. Step 8

   Divide the batter into the prepared cupcake pan, filling each liner almost to the top. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Step 9

   Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely, about 30 minutes.

10. Step 10

    To put filling inside cupcakes, first use a small knife to cut a small hole in the center of each cupcake. Remove the center and set aside.

11. Step 11

    Fill each hole with about 1 teaspoon of the prepared lemon curd.

12. Step 12

    Beat powdered sugar and butter on low. Add the lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches the desired consistency. Use additional lemon juice if necessary.

13. Step 13

    Place the frosting in a pastry bag fitted with a star tip and decorate the tops of the cupcakes.

14. Step 14

    Garnish with additional lemon zest, if desired.