Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour.
02 - 3.5 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice.
03 - 2 tbsp milk.
04 - 8 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature.
05 - ¾ cup sugar.
06 - 3 tbsp thick yogurt or sour cream.
07 - 1 tsp vanilla or orange extract.
08 - ½ tsp finely grated orange zest.
09 - 2 large egg whites.
10 - 1.5 tsp baking powder.
11 - ¼ tsp baking soda.
12 - ¼ tsp kosher salt.
13 - 2.5 cups sifted powdered sugar (for frosting).
14 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting).
15 - 2 tbsp orange juice (for frosting).
16 - 2 drops orange food coloring (for frosting).
17 - ½ – 1 tsp vanilla or orange extract (for frosting).

Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
03 - In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
04 - Mix in the yogurt or sour cream. Gradually add the egg whites, beating well after each addition.
05 - Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the milk and orange juice, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
06 - Gently fold in the vanilla or orange extract and finely grated orange zest.
07 - Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
08 - Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
09 - To make the frosting: In a bowl, whip the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, orange juice, vanilla or orange extract, and food coloring. Beat until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice if needed.
10 - Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe or spread the orange buttercream frosting on top.
11 - Garnish with orange zest or small slices of orange for an extra touch.

Notes:

01 - These cupcakes are bright and vibrant with the nostalgic flavors of creamsicle, combining orange zest and a creamy buttercream frosting.
02 - Room temperature ingredients create a smoother batter, while egg whites help to make a lighter texture.