Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients until well blended. This will ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed for perfectly risen Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes. Set this bowl aside, ready for the next ingredients.

In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 3-4 minutes. Next, beat in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the sour cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is combined into a smooth batter.

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until incorporated. Be mindful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cupcakes. Once the batter is combined, fold in the lemon zest and the lightly mashed fresh raspberries. You should see swirls of pink from the raspberries throughout the vibrant yellow batter, hinting at the delicious flavor to come.

Prepare a standard cupcake pan by lining it with cupcake liners. Use a cookie scoop or ladle to fill each liner about two-thirds full with the batter, ensuring even portioning for beautiful, uniform Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should appear golden and fluffy.

While the cupcakes are cooling, it’s time to prepare the lemon cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the lemon juice and lemon zest, blending until the frosting is light and fluffy. This tangy frosting will be the perfect complement to your zesty cupcakes.

Once the Raspberry Lemon Heaven Cupcakes have cooled completely, use a piping bag or an offset spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the lemon cream cheese frosting. Feel free to get creative with your frosting technique! Your beautifully decorated cupcakes should now look as delightful as they taste—ready for celebrating or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every gorgeous, delicious bite!