If you are searching for a bright and fun dessert that captures the spirit of a classic cocktail, look no further than this Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting Recipe. These cupcakes marry the zestiness of fresh limes, the subtle kick of tequila, and a tender, moist crumb that will transport your taste buds straight to a sunny beachside fiesta. The lime frosting is perfectly tangy and creamy, crowning each cupcake with a flavor that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something a little different, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that feels like a party in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these delightful margarita cupcakes is a breeze because the ingredients list is straightforward and purposeful. Each item brings something special to the table, from the richness of butter and cream cheese to the zing of lime and the unique twist offered by lime gelatin powder. They all work harmoniously to create a parfait balance of flavor, texture, and color.
- 170g unsalted butter, softened: This adds richness and moisture to the cake batter, ensuring a tender crumb.
- 350g sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and helps create that light and fluffy texture.
- 3 tablespoons lime gelatin powder: Incorporates a subtle lime flavor and a hint of sweetness that enhances the cupcake’s character.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds structure for the perfect rise.
- 342g cake flour: A finer-textured flour that delivers softness and delicacy in your cupcakes.
- 8g baking powder: Leavens the cupcakes for a fluffy lift.
- 3g baking soda: Works with acidic buttermilk to ensure the cupcakes are light and airy.
- 3g salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 296g buttermilk: Adds moisture and tenderness while activating baking soda for the rise.
- 57g fresh lime juice: Delivers the authentic and refreshing tang of lime.
- 68g vegetable oil: Keeps cupcakes moist without overwhelming flavors.
- Zest of 2 limes: Bursts with intense lime aroma and flavor.
- 226g unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Provides a creamy base for the luscious lime frosting.
- 453g full-fat cream cheese, softened: Offers richness and tang that balances the sweet powdered sugar.
- Zest of 1 lime (for frosting): Adds that extra pop of citrus in the frosting.
- 690g to 747g powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 3g salt (for frosting): Enhances and deepens the frosting’s flavors.
- 2 tablespoons tequila: Brings the unmistakable margarita essence into the frosting, making it truly special.
How to Make Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a cupcake pan with paper liners. Then whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined. This step ensures your cupcakes get the perfect rise and texture.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, stir together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, fresh lime juice, and lime zest. This mixture adds tang and moisture, which will keep the cupcakes tender and bursting with brightness.
Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Lime Gelatin Powder
Using a stand mixer on medium speed, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar and lime gelatin powder, then keep mixing for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to the cupcake’s soft texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs One by One
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture. Beat on low speed until fully combined after each addition—this steady integration keeps your batter smooth and cohesive.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Mixtures
With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture alternately, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb without overworking the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly, about 60ml (¼ cup) per cupcake liner. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
Step 7: Make the Lime Frosting
Beat 226g of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add cream cheese in chunks, mixing until fluffy. Stir in tequila and lime zest for that authentic margarita flavor. Slowly add powdered sugar and salt, beating until the frosting turns silky and spreadable. Chill briefly if you plan to pipe the frosting.
How to Serve Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Top your cupcakes with small wedges of fresh lime or a sprinkle of coarse sugar to mimic the salted rim of a margarita glass. A tiny pinch of chili powder or a few edible flowers can turn these cupcakes into eye-catching, mouthwatering delights.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair wonderfully with light, refreshing accompaniments like a fresh fruit salad or a tropical punch. Think about complementing the citrusy notes with pineapple or mango for an extra tropical vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the cupcakes on a platter decorated with lime slices and colorful cocktail umbrellas. You might even serve them alongside mini margarita shots for a playful, themed dessert bar. Individual clear boxes with a lime-themed tag also make these cupcakes perfect for gifting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, store them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness, but allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
The cupcakes freeze beautifully without frosting. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to frost, thaw completely at room temperature and prepare the lime frosting fresh.
Reheating
To refresh cupcakes stored in the fridge or freezer, warm them gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back softness without drying them out. Always add your frosting after warming to keep it perfect.
FAQs
Can I use regular gelatin instead of lime gelatin powder?
You can, but lime gelatin powder adds both set texture and flavor that regular gelatin will not provide. If substituting, add lime zest and extra lime juice to compensate for the flavor difference.
Is the tequila flavor strong in these cupcakes?
The tequila in the frosting provides a subtle boozy note without overwhelming the cake. It enhances the margarita vibe while keeping the cupcakes family-friendly if you skip the frosting or reduce the tequila.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cake flour blend that matches your usual flour weight. The texture might be slightly different but will still be delicious and festive.
How do I get the frosting perfect for piping?
Chilling the frosting for about 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to pipe clean swirls. If too stiff, soften slightly by mixing gently at room temperature.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 296g of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to achieve the same tangy effect.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting Recipe enough if you want to wow your guests or simply treat yourself to a spirited sweet. The bright lime flavors blended with a touch of tequila bring a cheerful twist to classic cupcakes that is sure to brighten your day and any celebration. So, grab those ingredients, turn up your favorite party playlist, and start baking your own little margarita-inspired masterpieces!
Print
Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Margarita Cupcakes with Lime Frosting offer a delightful blend of citrusy lime flavor and a subtle hint of tequila, perfect for a festive occasion or a refreshing dessert. Moist and tender vanilla cupcakes enhanced with lime gelatin and zest are topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting infused with fresh lime juice and tequila, creating a vibrant and delicious treat.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 170g unsalted butter, softened
- 350g sugar
- 3 tablespoons lime gelatin powder
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 342g cake flour
- 8g baking powder
- 3g baking soda
- 3g salt
- 296g buttermilk
- 57g fresh lime juice
- 68g vegetable oil (e.g., canola oil)
- Zest of 2 limes
Lime Frosting
- 226g unsalted butter, softened
- 453g full-fat cream cheese, softened
- Zest of 1 lime
- 690g to 747g powdered sugar
- 3g salt
- 2 tablespoons tequila
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cupcake pans with paper liners to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for about 30 seconds to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, fresh lime juice, and lime zest. This mixture will add moisture and citrus flavor to the cupcakes. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add sugar and lime gelatin powder, continuing to mix for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps to incorporate air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until fully combined, ensuring a smooth batter without overmixing.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Set mixer to low speed and alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until incorporated to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Fill and Bake: Scoop approximately 60ml (¼ cup) of batter into each cupcake liner. Bake the cupcakes for 15 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire racks.
- Prepare Lime Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add cream cheese in chunks, mixing until well blended. Stir in tequila and lime zest for flavor. Slowly add powdered sugar and salt, mixing until smooth and spreadable. Chill frosting for best piping results.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost with the lime cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Lime gelatin powder adds a unique tangy flavor and tender texture but can be substituted with lime zest and an extra tablespoon of lime juice if unavailable.
- Make sure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter once dry and wet ingredients are combined to maintain cupcake fluffiness.
- Chilling the frosting helps achieve cleaner piping and a better consistency for decorating.
- Cupcakes are best served at room temperature and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
