Brighten up your day with these delicious homemade orange cupcakes, bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a tender, moist crumb. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a light dessert, these cupcakes bring together the tangy sweetness of oranges with a subtle buttery richness. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a cozy moment or share with friends, these cupcakes will leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 large orange
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup whole milk
For the orange glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Zest of ½ orange
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Citrus Magic: Slowly stir in the orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract, blending all the flavors. Alternate between adding the flour mixture and the milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Bake to Perfection: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Glaze: While the cupcakes cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest for the glaze until smooth.
- Add the Final Touch: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top for a zesty finish. Let it set for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy: These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee!