These zesty orange cupcakes are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. The moist cake is infused with the bright taste of orange zest and juice, while the creamy frosting adds a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the orange juice and orange zest. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fill muffin tin: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin liners.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Add orange flavor: Beat in the orange juice and orange zest until well combined.
Frost the Cupcakes:
- Frost: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, you can garnish the cupcakes with additional orange zest or a sprinkle of sugar.
Enjoy your delicious homemade orange cupcakes!