As a seasoned food blogger, I adore the versatility of lemon in recipes, especially when it comes to brightening up springtime treats. Lemon meringue pie cupcakes are a delightful fusion of tangy lemon curd, fluffy meringue, and a Biscoff cookie crumb crust, creating a symphony of flavors in each bite. These cupcakes not only embody the essence of the season but also offer a creative way to use up egg yolks and whites efficiently.
With the arrival of spring, it’s time to bid farewell to winter and relish the longer, sun-kissed days with a burst of zesty lemon goodness. The lemon meringue cupcakes, with their light lemon cake base, luscious lemon curd filling, and toasted meringue frosting, are a testament to the refreshing and vibrant flavors of the season. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a citrusy delight, these cupcakes are sure to elevate your springtime gatherings.
Ingredients Overview
Creating these lemon meringue pie cupcakes is a delightful experience, especially since they incorporate the fresh and zesty flavors of lemons, making them perfect for springtime gatherings.
Lemon Cupcake Ingredients
- 2 lemons
- Egg yolks
- Granulated sugar
- Butter
Lemon Curd Ingredients
- Lemons
- Egg yolks
- Granulated sugar
- Butter
- Egg whites
- Granulated sugar
- Cream of tartar
Required Kitchen Tools
As I embark on making these delicious lemon meringue cupcakes, having the right kitchen tools at hand is essential for a smooth baking experience. Here are the tools you will need to create these delightful treats:
For Cupcake Batter:
- Mixing Bowls: Bowls of various sizes for mixing the cupcake batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurement of ingredients like flour, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To combine the ingredients and ensure a smooth cupcake batter.
For Lemon Curd Filling:
- Saucepan: For cooking the lemon curd on the stovetop.
- Whisk: To continually stir and prevent clumping while making the lemon curd.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: For straining the lemon curd to ensure a smooth texture.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: To whip the egg whites for the meringue topping.
- Piping Bag with a Large Tip: For topping the cupcakes with the fluffy meringue.
- Kitchen Torch (Optional): If you prefer to torch the meringue for a caramelized finish.
Instructions for Lemon Cupcakes
Prep the Cupcake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 320-325°F and line a muffin pan with 12 cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, oil, buttermilk, milk, and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- Beat in the sugar and salt until thoroughly mixed.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold in just until combined.
- Add the lemon juice and zest, and gently fold into the batter by hand, being careful not to overmix.
- Evenly divide the cupcake batter among the 12 liners.
- Bake in the center of the preheated oven for about 21 minutes.
- The cupcakes are ready when they have risen, are golden brown, and feel springy to the touch.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool completely before frosting.
Instructions for Lemon Curd
Here are the detailed steps to create the luscious lemon curd for your lemon meringue cupcakes:
Mix Ingredients
To start, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt in the top of a double boiler. Ensure that the mixture is thoroughly combined to create a smooth texture. Keep whisking continuously to prevent the curd from curdling as it cooks.
Cooking the Curd
Set up your double boiler by simmering water in a saucepan and placing a heatproof glass bowl on top. Whisk the lemon curd mixture as it cooks for 10-15 minutes until it thickens and lightens in color, resembling hollandaise sauce. If the curd is not thickening, adjust the heat accordingly and continue whisking. Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the bowl from the heat and whisk in butter until smooth. Optionally, strain the curd through a fine mesh strainer before transferring it into a glass jar. Allow it to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for up to a week.
Instructions for Meringue Topping
Creating the perfect meringue topping for your lemon meringue cupcakes is a key step to make them truly stand out. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve that fluffy, golden brown finish that adds both taste and visual appeal to your cupcakes.
Prepare Meringue Mixture
- In a clean mixing bowl, combine the egg whites and Bakewell Cream or cream of tartar.
- Whip the mixture until soft peaks form, then add a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add the sugar, increasing whipping speed, until the meringue is light, billowy, and stiff peaks form.
- Once the meringue mixture is prepared, pile or pipe it onto the filled cupcakes.
- Use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue until it turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve warm for a flowing lemon lava effect or cool for a more set filling.
Assembling the Cupcakes
To bring these lemon meringue cupcakes to life, follow these steps to assemble them with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Filling the Cupcakes with Lemon Curd
- Use a sharp knife to cut a small circle into the top of each cupcake.
- Carefully scoop out about a tablespoon of the sponge from the center of each cupcake, keeping the tops intact.
- Fill the holes with the chilled lemon curd using a teaspoon or piping bag.
- Gently place the reserved cupcake tops back onto the filled cupcakes to seal in the tangy goodness.
- Frost your cupcakes generously with the meringue topping for a light and fluffy finish.
- To achieve the signature toasted meringue look, use a kitchen blowtorch or oven grill.
- If using a kitchen blowtorch, carefully brown the meringue on each cupcake until golden.
- For oven grilling, set the grill to medium-low heat and place the cupcakes underneath until the meringue reaches the desired color.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have beautifully assembled lemon meringue cupcakes that are not only visually stunning but also bursting with delightful flavors.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Bake with Meringue
It’s time to elevate these lemon meringue cupcakes with a delightful meringue topping. To achieve that classic meringue finish, we’ll be using Swiss meringue, adding both stability and safety to this delectable treat. Let’s get that meringue piped on and ready for toasting!
Final Garnishing
To bring out the best in these lemon meringue cupcakes, the final step is to give the meringue a perfectly toasted touch. Grab a kitchen torch, be cautious, and apply gentle heat to toast the meringue topping evenly. This finishing touch not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor profile of these delightful treats.
Storage and Serving Tips
When it comes to enjoying these delectable lemon meringue cupcakes, proper storage and serving techniques can make all the difference. Here are some handy tips to ensure that you savor every bite of these delightful treats:
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: It is best to store the lemon meringue cupcakes in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Place them in an airtight container to prevent any odors from the fridge affecting their flavor.
- Shelf Life: While these cupcakes are best enjoyed on the same day they are made, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the meringue topping might lose its perfect texture over time.
- Avoid Freezing: Due to the delicate nature of the meringue frosting, it is not recommended to freeze these cupcakes as it can alter the texture and appearance of the frosting.
- Room Temperature: Before serving, allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and textures of the cupcake components.
- Garnishing: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the meringue frosting just before serving.
- Presentation: Serve the lemon meringue cupcakes on a decorative platter or cake stand to make them visually appealing and enticing to your guests.
By following these storage and serving tips, you can ensure that your lemon meringue cupcakes remain fresh, delicious, and visually stunning, providing a delightful treat for any occasion.
Conclusion
Creating lemon meringue cupcakes is a delightful way to add a burst of citrusy flavor to your baking repertoire. The fusion of tangy lemon curd, fluffy meringue, and a crunchy Biscoff cookie crumb crust brings a unique twist to traditional cupcakes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can master the art of crafting these delectable treats that are perfect for springtime indulgence. From making the lemon curd to achieving that picture-perfect meringue topping, each stage contributes to the overall appeal of these cupcakes. Remember to store them correctly and serve them with a touch of elegance to ensure they are enjoyed to the fullest. With these tips and tricks at your disposal, you’re all set to impress your guests with these irresistible lemon meringue cupcakes at your next gathering.