These moist and flavorful cupcakes are bursting with zesty orange flavor, perfect for a sunny afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
- For the Cupcakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions:
- Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide batter evenly among the muffin liners.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Orange Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons orange juice until smooth.
- Add more orange juice, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in orange zest.
- Frost the Cupcakes:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them with the orange glaze.
- Garnish with additional orange zest, if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice.
- You can substitute the milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor.
- Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the batter for extra warmth.
- Decorate with candied orange peel or fresh orange slices.
Enjoy your delicious Orange Cupcakes!