Lemon Zest Buttercream Frosting
A lusciously smooth lemon buttercream frosting infused with zesty lemon extract, vibrant lemon zest, and a touch of citric acid for a tart, refreshing flavor. Perfect for cupcakes, layer cakes, and macarons.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Category: Frosting
- Method: Whipping
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups confectioner’s sugar
- 1 tsp lemon extract
- 2 tsp citric acid
- Zest from 1–2 lemons
- Yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Allow the unsalted butter to soften at room temperature until pliable but not melted. Place in a stand mixer bowl.
- Whisk on high speed for 6–9 minutes until pale, ultra-fluffy, and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
- Add confectioner’s sugar. Mix on low until incorporated, then whip on high speed for 3–4 minutes until light and airy.
- Add lemon extract, citric acid, lemon zest, and yellow food coloring (if using).
- Whisk on medium speed for 30 seconds, scrape sides, then whip again for 30 seconds until fully blended and uniform in color.
- Use immediately to frost desserts or store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before reuse.
Notes
- For a more intense lemon flavor, use zest from 2 lemons.
- Adjust citric acid to taste if you prefer a less tart frosting.
- Yellow food coloring enhances visual appeal but is optional.
- Store frosting in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 1171
- Sugar: 120g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 78g
- Saturated Fat: 49g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29g
- Trans Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 120g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/lemon-zest-buttercream-frosting/