Orange Cupcakes Recipe

Bright, citrusy, and perfect for any occasion, these orange cupcakes are bursting with flavor. They’re moist, tender, and topped with a delicious orange buttercream frosting.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice  
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Orange Buttercream Frosting:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Orange food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

Cupcakes:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the orange juice and orange zest.  
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.  
6. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.  

Orange Buttercream Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated.
3. Add the orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.
4. If desired, add a few drops of orange food coloring to achieve your desired shade.
5. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the orange buttercream.

Enjoy your delicious homemade orange cupcakes!