Key Lime Cupcakes Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lime zest, and key lime juice.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fill the cupcake liners about ¾ full with batter and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before filling and frosting.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Lime Frosting:
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting becomes light and airy. Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully combined.
3️⃣ Fill & Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a cupcake corer or a small knife to cut a hole in the center of each cupcake.
Spoon or pipe the creamy lime frosting into the hole to fill the cupcakes.
Frost the top of each cupcake with the remaining frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
Garnish with additional lime zest or a small slice of key lime for an extra pop of flavor and decoration.
Pro Tips for Perfect Key Lime Cupcakes:
- Cupcake Texture: Be sure to not overmix the cupcake batter to keep them light and fluffy. Mixing just until combined will prevent dense cupcakes.
- Frosting Tip: Let the cream cheese and butter soften at room temperature before you start making the frosting to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Add Extra Lime Flavor: For an even more intense lime flavor, you can add a few extra drops of key lime juice to the frosting or the batter.
Why You’ll Love Key Lime Cupcakes:
- Citrusy Delight: These cupcakes are the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a refreshing treat for any occasion.
- Creamy Frosting: The rich, creamy frosting paired with the zesty lime flavor is absolutely irresistible!
- Perfect for Any Celebration: These cupcakes make an excellent dessert for summer parties, holidays, or as a special treat for lime lovers.
Nutritional Information (per cupcake):
- Calories: 300-350 (depending on frosting and portion size)
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQ About Key Lime Cupcakes:
Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cupcakes a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them just before serving.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them and then frost them with fresh lime frosting.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, you can substitute regular limes for key limes, but key limes offer a more tart and fragrant flavor. You’ll still have a delicious cupcake either way!
Common Problems and Fixes:
Cupcakes Are Too Dense?
If your cupcakes turn out dense, you may have overmixed the batter. Be sure to mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
Frosting Too Soft?
If your frosting is too runny, try refrigerating it for 15-20 minutes to firm it up. You can also add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Coconut Key Lime Cupcakes: Add shredded coconut to the cupcake batter or frosting for a tropical twist.
- Key Lime Cheesecake Cupcakes: Make a swirl of cheesecake filling inside each cupcake for a cheesecake-inspired dessert.
- Berry-Topped Key Lime Cupcakes: Top your cupcakes with fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Why Key Lime Cupcakes Are Perfect for Any Occasion:
These cupcakes are the ideal dessert for summer gatherings, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress your friends with a refreshing, citrusy treat. Their light texture and tangy flavor make them a standout dessert at any celebration.
Success with Key Lime Cupcakes:
These Key Lime Cupcakes are a delightful, refreshing treat that everyone will love! With their soft texture, creamy lime frosting, and zesty lime flavor, they’ll quickly become a favorite.
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