Description
These Key Lime Cupcakes are a delightful twist on classic cupcakes, bursting with fresh lime zest and juice for a tangy, refreshing flavor. Moist and fluffy white cake cupcakes are topped with a creamy lime-infused cream cheese frosting, making them perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a citrusy, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 1 (15.25 ounce) package white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 3 eggs
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 3 drops green food coloring (optional)
Frosting Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons pearlized sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 24 muffin cups with paper liners or spray them with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to blend until the batter is smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add Lime and Color: Stir in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and green food coloring if using. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Evenly pour the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake Cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, place cupcakes on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Frosting – Cream Butter and Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the lime zest and vanilla extract, ensuring they are well incorporated to add a fresh and sweet citrus flavor.
- Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing between additions until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Chill the frosting in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to thicken it.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Spread the chilled frosting evenly onto the cooled cupcakes. Optionally, top each with pearlized sprinkles for a decorative touch.
Notes
- For a more intense lime flavor, add extra lime zest to the batter and frosting.
- Green food coloring is optional and primarily for visual effect; the cupcakes are delicious without it.
- Make sure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.
- Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
