Very lemony cupcakes

Preparation

Finely zest the unwaxed lemons. Beat the eggs. Soften the unsalted butter. Sift the self-raising flour. Soften the unsalted butter. Sift the icing sugar.

For the Sponge

For the Frosting

And the rest...

1. 1 Heat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4 (160°C for fan ovens). Line one 12-hole muffin tin per 12 cupcakes you plan to make with paper cases.
2. 2 In a mixing bowl, beat the butter with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until creamy.
3. 3 Beat in the sugar and zest, and beat for about 4 minutes or until light and fluffy.
4. 4 Gradually add the eggs, a tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. 5 Using a large metal spoon, fold in the flour in 3 batches alternately with the buttermilk.
6. 6 Add the lemon juice and mix in thoroughly.
7. 7 Spoon the mixture evenly among the paper cases. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until light golden brown and just firm to the touch.
8. 8 Remove from the oven and leave to cool for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely before icing.
9. 9 To make the frosting, beat the butter until creamy.
10. 10 Gradually beat in the sugar.
11. 11 When the mixture is smooth, beat in the lemon curd and colouring.
12. 12 If necessary, chill the frosting until firm but spreadable.
13. 13 Ice the cupcake using a round-bladed knife or a piping bag fitted with a star tube.
14. 14 Sprinkle with the extra lemon zest.