Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

These cupcakes scream summer! They taste just like a refreshing strawberry lemonade. They are light, fluffy, sweet and tart. Not to mention they are so easy to make! Kid tested and approved too!

What you need;
For the cake:
1 box of strawberry cake mix (follow directions on the box)
1 box of vanilla pudding mix (this is optional but makes the cupcakes super moist)
For the lemon buttercream icing:
1\2 c vegetable shortening
1/2 c butter, softened
2 tbls fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
4 cups powdered sugar

How to make;
Line muffin tins with cupcake liners, mix cake mix using the directions on the box. Stir in pudding mix until incorporated. Follow baking temp and time from box. Cool completely. Cream together shortening and butter. Add lemon zest and juice. Slowly add sugar until all combined. Ice cupcakes and enjoy!

I put my icing in a freezer bag and cut the tip of the bag so I can pipe the icing on the cupcakes. I have fresh mint from my garden so a mint garnish was necessary. These would be great for a summer bbq or birthday party!