Nigella Lemon Curd Cupcakes

Dive into the world of baking with the delightful Nigella Lawson's Lemon Curd Cupcakes. This recipe combines the tartness of lemon with the sweet, fluffy texture of cupcakes, topped with a creamy, lemony frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are a treat for the senses.

Brief Description of the Recipe Nigella Lawson's Lemon Curd Cupcakes are a perfect blend of tangy lemon curd nestled within soft, airy cupcakes. Topped with a light, lemon-infused frosting, these cupcakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Cultural or Historical Context Lemon curd is a traditional English spread, and its incorporation into cupcakes is a modern twist on classic flavors. Nigella Lawson, a renowned food writer and television chef, has popularized this recipe, making it a favorite in many households.

Ingredients List

• For the Lemon Cupcake Sponge:
  • 100g unsalted butter, softened
  • 100g self-raising flour, sifted
  • 100g golden caster sugar
  • Zest of 1 lemon and 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 2 medium eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional)
• For the Lemon Frosting:
  • 75g unsalted butter, softened
  • 175g icing sugar, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your cupcake tray with liners.
2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then mix in the lemon zest or juice.
3. Gradually add the eggs, mixing well after each addition, and then fold in the flour and baking powder.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the cupcake cases and bake until golden and a tester comes out clean.
5. For the frosting, cream the butter until light and fluffy, gradually add the icing sugar, and then mix in the lemon zest and juice.
6. Once the cupcakes have cooled, decorate them with the lemon frosting as desired.

Storage and Reheating Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosted, it's best to keep them in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without the frosting for up to a month.

Nutritional Information While specific nutritional information will vary, these cupcakes contain sugar, butter, and eggs, contributing to their calorie, fat, and sugar content. For a lighter version, consider reducing the sugar or substituting some ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use store-bought lemon curd? Yes, store-bought lemon curd can be used for convenience.
• How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.
• Can the recipe be doubled? Absolutely. Just ensure to double all the ingredients evenly for consistency.

This delightful recipe, originating from Nigella Lawson's repertoire, showcases the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making the Lemon Curd Cupcakes a must-try for any baking enthusiast.