Lemon and fig cupcakes for a delightful dessert treat

Ingredients for Lemon and fig cupcakes

• 320 g plain flour

• 10 g baking powder

• 1 g salt

• 225 g unsalted butter, softened

• 350 g caster sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 10 ml pure vanilla extract

• 300 ml full-fat milk

• 120 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 120 g freshly grated lemon zest (from approximately 2 to 3 lemons)

• 80 g fresh or dried figs, sliced

• 55 g unsalted butter, softened

• 500 g icing sugar

• 1 g pure vanilla extract

• 170 g cream cheese

How to make Lemon and fig cupcakes

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (fan)/180°C (conventional). Line two cupcake trays with twelve paper baking cases each. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl, then set aside.

2. In the bowl of a stand mixer or using a handheld electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3–5 minutes.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing slowly after each addition.

4. Combine the vanilla extract and milk in a large measuring jug.

5. Add one-third of the flour mixture to the butter mixture, then gradually incorporate one-third of the milk mixture, beating slowly until well combined. Repeat this process by adding another third of the flour mixture, followed by another third of the milk mixture, stopping to scrape down the bowl as necessary. Finally, add the remaining flour mixture and the remaining milk mixture, and beat just until combined.

6. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.

7. Scoop the batter into the baking cases, filling each two-thirds full. Place one fig slice on top of each cupcake, ensuring it covers the surface of the batter.

8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of a cupcake comes out clean. Transfer the trays to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. In a clean bowl, mix all the ingredients for the frosting for approximately 3–5 minutes, until light and airy.

10. Frost each cupcake with a thick layer of frosting using an offset spatula. Serve and enjoy!

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.