Lemon Blossoms

Ya, the picture just about says it all, doesn't it? Want to dive right in, don't you? Paula Deen hits one out of the park with this super easy recipe for a delightful lemon fix. They're called "lemon blossoms." Think rich, dense lemon cake in a bite-sized treat that's glazed with a power-punch of lemon juice sweetness. These are great any time of year and very easy to make. I love them for picnics, parties, even kid's bakesales.

Lemon Blossoms:

18 1/2 ounce package yellow cake mix (aka 1 box of yellow cake mix)

3 1/2 ounce package instant lemon pudding mix

4 large eggs

3/4 cup vegetable oil

For the glaze:

4 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 lemon zested

3 Tbsp vegetable oil

3 Tbsp water

Special Equipment: mini-muffin tins

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Spray miniature muffin tins with vegetable oil cooking spray. Combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs and oil and blend well with an electric mixer until smooth, about 2 minutes. Pour a small amount of batter, filling each muffin tin half way. Bake for 12 minutes. Turn out onto a tea towel.

To make the glaze, sift the sugar into a mixing bowl. Add the lemon juice, zest, oil, and 3 tablespoons water. Mix with a spoon until smooth.

With fingers, dip the cupcakes into the glaze while they're still warm, covering as much of the cake as possible, or spoon the glaze over the warm cupcakes, turning them to completely coat. Place on wire racks with waxed paper underneath to catch any drips. Let the glaze set thoroughly, about 1 hour, before storing in containers with tight-fitting lids.

My Notes:

I add a tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest to the batter as well to pump up the flavor and smell of lemon even more. The flavor of lemon is in the rind (or zest). Personally I think it makes a huge difference.

You can also freeze these unglazed to have on hand for a quick treat or emergency dessert for a party.

And a note of caution: these are amazing and easy to make, and your friends will be asking you to make them all the time. Enjoy it!