Description
Cool summer memories dance through Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes, blending nostalgic citrus sweetness with creamy vanilla frosting. Dessert enthusiasts can indulge in this playful twist on a classic treat that promises pure refreshment with each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
Filling and Frosting Ingredients:
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 0.25 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Orange food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment at 350°F and arrange cupcake liners in a muffin tin, ensuring even spacing.
- Combine dry ingredients in a medium mixing bowl, whisking flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly blended. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and airy. Incorporate eggs individually, then gently fold in vanilla and orange zest. Alternate adding dry ingredients and liquid components (orange juice and milk), mixing until just incorporated. Carefully distribute batter into cupcake liners, filling approximately two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick. Allow cupcakes to rest in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks emerge. Introduce powdered sugar, vanilla, and orange zest, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Carefully excavate the center of each cooled cupcake using a knife or specialized corer, then generously fill with the orange cream mixture.
- Whisk butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually introduce powdered sugar, ensuring thorough integration after each addition. Incorporate orange juice, vanilla, and heavy cream, beating until the frosting achieves a fluffy consistency. Optional: Add orange food coloring for enhanced visual appeal. Apply frosting using a piping bag or spatula, covering the filled cupcakes completely.
- Garnish with optional decorative elements like fresh orange zest, colorful sprinkles, or a delicate orange slice. Present and savor the delightful citrus-infused cupcakes.
Notes
- Customize Orange Intensity by adjusting the amount of orange zest and juice for a more pronounced or subtle citrus flavor.
- Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, ensuring a similar texture and taste.
- Prevent Overmixing when combining wet and dry ingredients to maintain a light, tender cupcake crumb and avoid dense, tough results.
- Stabilize Whipped Cream Filling by adding a small amount of gelatin or cream cheese to help maintain its structure and prevent weeping.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg