Best Homemade Orange Cupcakes Recipe
Introduction
Bright and sunny orange cupcakes with real orange zest. This simple recipe creates the most fluffy, tender cupcakes that taste like sunshine in every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tbsp fresh orange zest
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in orange zest.
- Combine orange juice, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl.
- Alternately add flour mixture and orange juice mixture to butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly among prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Zest First: Zest your oranges before juicing them for easier handling.
- Room Temperature: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature for better mixing and fluffier texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix batter until just combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Fresh Is Best: Use fresh orange juice and zest for the brightest citrus flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sodium: 120mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use orange extract instead of fresh oranges? A: Fresh orange zest and juice provide the best flavor, but you can substitute with 1 tsp orange extract and bottled juice if needed.
- Q: How should I store these cupcakes? A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Q: Can I add frosting to these cupcakes? A: Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or orange buttercream pair wonderfully with these citrus cupcakes.