Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love the nostalgic taste of an orange creamsicle, these cupcakes will become your new favorite treat. They’re light, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor, balanced perfectly with a creamy vanilla frosting. Whether for a summer party, birthday, or just because—you’ll want to make these cupcakes again and again!
Table of Contents
Pure Comfort
There’s something about the combination of orange and vanilla that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. These cupcakes take the comforting flavors of a childhood favorite and transform them into a soft, moist, and decadent treat that brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients
What You Need
For the cupcakes:
- 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
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup whole milk
For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh orange juice
- A few drops of orange food coloring (optional)
Time to Cook
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Steps to Make It
Make It Perfect
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream the butter and sugar – In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and flavor – Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, orange juice, and zest.
Combine wet and dry ingredients – Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
Fill and bake – Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
Mix It Up
Want to make it even more special? Try these fun variations:
- Add white chocolate chips to the batter for an extra sweet touch.
- Use orange extract for a stronger citrus flavor.
- Fill the cupcakes with vanilla pudding for a creamsicle surprise!
Perfect Partners
Busy Day Hero
Need a quick dessert for a party? These cupcakes can be made ahead and still taste fresh! Bake them the night before, and they’ll be ready to frost and serve when needed.
Work Ahead
If you want to save time, make the frosting in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just re-whip it before using.
Save Some For Later
Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (without frosting) for up to 3 months
Everyone’s Happy
These cupcakes are a hit for kids and adults alike! The sweet citrusy aroma, moist texture, and creamy frosting make them the perfect feel-good dessert.
Good For You Too
These cupcakes offer a refreshing burst of citrus, thanks to fresh orange juice and zest. While they’re still a sweet treat, they provide a dose of vitamin C—so let’s count that as a win!
Easy Clean Up
Since this recipe requires minimal bowls and tools, cleaning up is a breeze! Just a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a piping bag, and you’re good to go.
Switch It Up
Not a fan of cupcakes? Turn this recipe into an Orange Creamsicle Cake! Simply pour the batter into a 9-inch round cake pan and increase baking time to 30-35 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh orange juice gives a brighter and more natural flavor!
2. How do I get the perfect frosting consistency?
If it’s too thick, add a bit more heavy cream. If it’s too thin, mix in more powdered sugar.
3. Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap butter for vegan butter, milk for almond milk, and heavy cream for coconut cream.
4. What’s the best way to frost these cupcakes?
Use a piping bag with a round tip for a smooth swirl, or spread it with a spoon for a rustic look.
5. Can I make mini cupcakes instead?
Yes! Just reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes and enjoy bite-sized goodness.
6. How do I get a stronger orange flavor?
Add 1 tsp of orange extract or a little more zest for an extra citrus punch.
7. Can I add a topping for extra texture?
Yes! Try sprinkling crushed vanilla wafers or orange zest on top for a delightful crunch.
Conclusion
These Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes bring all the nostalgia of a classic creamsicle in a soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet cupcake. Whether you’re making them for a party, a weekend treat, or just because—you can’t go wrong with this easy and delicious recipe!
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