Description
Delight in the nostalgic charm of Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes, featuring a perfect blend of tangy citrus and creamy vanilla flavors. This easy, vibrant dessert is ideal for summer gatherings, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a sweet citrus treat.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Orange food coloring (optional)
For the Creamsicle Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp orange extract (optional)
- Orange and white food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest.
- Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour. Stir in orange juice and add food coloring, if desired.
- Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
Make the Creamsicle Frosting:
- Beat butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with orange juice.
- Mix in vanilla and orange extracts. Adjust consistency with more orange juice or powdered sugar as needed.
- For a swirl effect, divide frosting into two portions, tint one orange, and leave the other white. Use a piping bag to swirl the colors together.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
- Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
- Garnish with orange zest, sprinkles, or small orange candies.
Notes
- For extra citrus flavor, add orange curd or marmalade as a filling.
- These cupcakes can be made dairy-free by using plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
- Adjust the frosting’s sweetness by modifying the sugar-to-orange juice ratio.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
