Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes

Name: Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delightful Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes that blend the sweetness of ripe bananas with a refreshing lemon twist.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-03T10:06:29.247Z

These Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the refreshing zing of lemon. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly moist texture enhanced by ripe bananas
Refreshing lemon zest that brightens each bite
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes offer a delightful combination of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas provides a moist base that pairs beautifully with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. This unique marriage of flavors creates a cupcake that is not only delicious but also refreshing, making it suitable for any occasion.

The addition of lemon zest elevates these cupcakes from ordinary to extraordinary. Each bite bursts with citrusy goodness, perfectly complementing the soft, fluffy texture of the banana. Whether served as a sweet treat at a birthday party or enjoyed as a delightful afternoon snack, these cupcakes are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Easy to Make, Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of these Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious dessert option.

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a sweet treat at home, these cupcakes are a fantastic choice. They are versatile enough to be dressed up with a lemon glaze for a more formal dessert or enjoyed plain for a casual snack. The ease of preparation means you can make them on a whim and delight in the results.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving for the best flavor and texture.

These cupcakes also freeze beautifully. If you want to make a batch ahead of time, simply freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them. This way, you can always have a delicious treat on hand!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Glaze (optional)

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. If desired, prepare the lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest, then drizzle over the cooled cupcakes.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes!

Variations to Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to customize your Lemon Zest Banana Cupcakes. For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. The crunch of the nuts complements the soft cupcakes beautifully and adds an extra layer of flavor.

If you're a fan of chocolate, you can incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite. The rich chocolate pairs surprisingly well with the bright lemon, creating a decadent yet refreshing dessert.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture adds a delightful contrast to the moist cupcakes, making each bite even more enjoyable.

For a festive touch, consider garnishing your cupcakes with additional lemon zest or a slice of lemon on top. This not only enhances the presentation but also reinforces the lemon flavor, making them even more appealing to guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can use coconut oil or applesauce for a dairy-free alternative.