The Delightful Lemon Basil Olive Oil Cupcakes Recipe

Introduction

These Lemon Basil Olive Oil Cupcakes offer a unique and refreshing twist on classic cupcakes. The bright citrus flavor of lemon combined with fragrant basil and the richness of olive oil creates a moist, flavorful treat perfect for any occasion.

A single cupcake with a light yellow cake base wrapped in a yellow polka dot paper liner sits on a white marbled surface. On top, there is a thick swirl of creamy white frosting with soft, ruffled edges, decorated with small golden round sprinkles and a small green leaf. A thin slice of lemon is placed upright at the back of the frosting swirl. In the background, blurred cupcakes with similar frosting can be seen along with some green leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, eggs, milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Step 5: Gently fold in the chopped basil until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  6. Step 6: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  7. Step 7: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Step 8: Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

  • For a more intense lemon flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon extract to the wet ingredients.
  • Try substituting fresh basil with mint for a different herbaceous note.
  • Use a light-flavored olive oil to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
  • Top with a simple lemon glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness.

Storage

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. If refrigerated, let cupcakes come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to restore moisture.

How to Serve

Three yellow cupcakes with light fluffy texture stand on a white marbled surface, each topped with a thick swirl of creamy white frosting. The frosting is decorated with small gold beads and a thin lemon slice placed at the back, along with bright green leaves. A sliced lemon with green leaves lies in front of the cupcakes as additional decoration. The focus is clear, showing fine details of the cupcake texture and frosting, with a soft, blurred background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but if using dried, reduce the amount to about 1 tablespoon and add it with the dry ingredients.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with flaxseed eggs and use a plant-based milk. Ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly as well.

Print

The Delightful Lemon Basil Olive Oil Cupcakes Recipe

These Lemon Basil Olive Oil Cupcakes are a delightful twist on classic cupcakes, combining zesty lemon and fragrant fresh basil with the rich, moist texture provided by olive oil. Perfectly balanced sweetness and herbaceous notes make these cupcakes a refreshing treat for any occasion.

  • Author: Jeannette
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, eggs, milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and fully incorporated.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cupcakes tender.
  5. Add Basil: Fold the chopped fresh basil gently into the batter until evenly distributed, imparting a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.
  6. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
  7. Bake the Cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cupcakes are fully baked.
  8. Cool the Cupcakes: Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense cupcakes.
  • Ensure fresh basil is finely chopped for even distribution.
  • Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best flavor.
  • Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting or serving.

Keywords: Lemon Cupcakes, Basil Cupcakes, Olive Oil Cupcakes, Moist Cupcakes, Herb Cupcakes, Lemon Basil Dessert, Easy Cupcakes

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