Lemon-Basil Chiffon Cupcakes with Zesty Frosting

These Lemon-Basil Chiffon Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the refreshing brightness of lemon with the aromatic touch of fresh basil. The airy chiffon texture makes them light and fluffy, while the zesty frosting adds a tangy finish that complements the cupcakes beautifully. They are perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon teas, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home.

Using fresh basil in the batter not only enhances the flavor but also adds a unique twist that sets these cupcakes apart from traditional lemon cakes. Once baked, they are adorned with a luscious lemon cream cheese frosting that is both creamy and refreshing. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Lemon-Basil Chiffon Cupcakes with Zesty Frosting

Serves: 12 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes 25 minutes

Nutrition facts: 180 calories 9g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

FOR THE FROSTING

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, egg yolks, milk, lemon zest, chopped basil, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
6. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter until no white streaks remain.
7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest, mixing until well blended.
10. Fold in the chopped basil into the frosting.
11. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the lemon-basil cream cheese frosting. Optionally, garnish with a basil leaf or lemon zest. Enjoy!

Notes

Tip: For a lighter frosting, you can substitute half of the cream cheese with whipped cream.

To ensure your cupcakes are as fluffy as possible, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the flour. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.

If fresh basil isn’t available, you can also use dried basil, but reduce the quantity to about 1 teaspoon. For a fun variation, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest into the frosting for an extra burst of flavor.

These cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, bake the cupcakes and refrigerate them without frosting. Frost just before serving for the best texture!