Fluffy Orange Cupcakes

Why Make This Recipe

Fluffy Orange Cupcakes are a delightful treat that adds a burst of citrus flavor to your day. They’re perfect for birthdays, parties, or just when you want a sweet snack. These cupcakes are light, airy, and full of fresh orange juice and zest, making them a refreshing dessert. Plus, they are easy to make!

How to Make Fluffy Orange Cupcakes

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1⁄4 tsp baking soda
• 1⁄4 tsp salt
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1⁄2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1⁄4 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1⁄2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 3⁄4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp orange zest (for frosting)
• 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice (for frosting)
• A pinch of salt (for frosting)
• Orange food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
5. In a small cup, combine the fresh orange juice and milk.
6. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the juice/milk mixture into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
7. Divide the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

For the frosting:

1. Beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.
3. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
4. If you like, add orange food coloring to your frosting.
5. Frost the cooled cupcakes and decorate with a twist of orange zest or candied peel.

How to Serve Fluffy Orange Cupcakes

Serve Fluffy Orange Cupcakes on a big plate or in a cupcake tower. They look great and are fun to eat. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

How to Store Fluffy Orange Cupcakes

Store your cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them come back to room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Fluffy Orange Cupcakes

• Make sure your butter is really soft; this helps get the right fluffy texture.
• Don’t over-mix the batter; just mix until everything is combined.
• Use fresh orange juice and zest for the best flavor.
• You can use a toothpick to test if they are done. If it comes out clean, they’re ready!

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist! Or, try using lemon instead of orange for a different citrus flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Yes, but fresh orange juice gives the best flavor!

2. How can I make sure my cupcakes are fluffy?
Make sure to cream the butter and sugar well, and don’t over-mix the batter.

3. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Just thaw them before frosting and serving.