Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Bright and Flavorful Orange Cupcakes Recipe


  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x

Description

Bright and flavorful orange cupcakes bursting with citrusy goodness! These moist and tender cupcakes, topped with a refreshing orange-infused frosting, are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale

For the cupcakes:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup milk

For the frosting:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with paper liners.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
    • Stir in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
    • Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until just combined.
  2. Bake the Cupcakes:
    • Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full with batter.
    • Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Cool in pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Frosting:
    • Beat butter until smooth and creamy.
    • Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
    • Stir in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
    • Continue beating until light and fluffy.
  4. Frost the Cupcakes:
    • Once cupcakes are fully cooled, frost using a piping bag or spatula.
    • Optionally, garnish with extra orange zest or sprinkles.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, add 1/4 cup sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
  • Substitute whole wheat flour for a denser texture or use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Store unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate frosted cupcakes for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months and thaw before frosting.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: orange cupcakes, citrus dessert, homemade cupcakes, orange frosting, easy cupcake recipe