Name: Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour.; 3.5 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice.; 2 tbsp milk.; 8 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature.; ¾ cup sugar.; 3 tbsp thick yogurt or sour cream.; 1 tsp vanilla or orange extract.; ½ tsp finely grated orange zest.; 2 large egg whites.; 1.5 tsp baking powder.; ¼ tsp baking soda.; ¼ tsp kosher salt.; 2.5 cups sifted powdered sugar (for frosting).; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting).; 2 tbsp orange juice (for frosting).; 2 drops orange food coloring (for frosting).; ½ – 1 tsp vanilla or orange extract (for frosting).

These Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes will take you back to the nostalgic flavors of summer. The cupcakes are infused with fresh orange juice and zest, giving them a bright, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy orange buttercream frosting. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual gatherings. The buttercream frosting is light, fluffy, and tinted with orange food coloring for a vibrant look. Garnish them with a touch of orange zest or a small slice of fresh orange for an extra pop of flavor and color. They're easy to make and guaranteed to brighten up your dessert table!

Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes with Orange Buttercream Frosting are the perfect treat to bring back the flavors of your favorite summer creamsicle. These cupcakes are bright and zesty, made with freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and a touch of creamy yogurt or sour cream. The result is a moist, flavorful cupcake with a light, fluffy texture. To top it off, the cupcakes are crowned with a smooth and creamy orange buttercream frosting, which is both refreshing and indulgent. These cupcakes are easy to make and perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a fun baking project at home.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 1 ⅓ cups, to form the base of the cupcakes
Fresh orange juice: 3.5 tbsp, for zesty flavor
Milk: 2 tbsp, for moisture in the batter
Unsalted butter: 8 tbsp, room temperature, to create a rich base
Sugar: ¾ cup, to sweeten the cupcakes
Yogurt or sour cream: 3 tbsp, for added creaminess
Vanilla or orange extract: 1 tsp, to enhance flavor
Orange zest: ½ tsp finely grated, for a vibrant citrus aroma
Egg whites: 2 large, for a lighter, fluffier texture
Baking powder: 1.5 tsp, to help the cupcakes rise
Baking soda: ¼ tsp, for additional lift
Kosher salt: ¼ tsp, to balance the sweetness
Powdered sugar (for frosting): 2.5 cups, sifted, for sweetness and structure in the frosting
Unsalted butter (for frosting): ½ cup, softened, for creamy texture in the buttercream
Orange juice (for frosting): 2 tbsp, for vibrant citrus flavor
Orange food coloring: 2 drops, to give the frosting its vibrant hue
Vanilla or orange extract (for frosting): ½ – 1 tsp, for added flavor

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
Step 2:: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3:: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy.
Step 4:: Mix in the yogurt or sour cream. Gradually add the egg whites, beating well after each addition.
Step 5:: Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the milk and orange juice, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
Step 6:: Gently fold in the vanilla or orange extract and finely grated orange zest.
Step 7:: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8:: Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Step 9 (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.
Step 10:: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe or spread the orange buttercream frosting on top. Garnish with orange zest or small slices of orange for an extra touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

For the best flavor, serve these cupcakes fresh at room temperature.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Helpful Notes

Using room temperature ingredients ensures a smoother batter and better consistency in the frosting.
Lightly toasting the orange zest before adding it to the batter can enhance the orange flavor.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Mary Berry: For a light, fluffy cupcake, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. Stir just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.