Name: Key Lime Cupcakes with a Tropical Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk; 2 tbsp key lime juice (fresh); 1 tbsp key lime zest; ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 3 cups (360 g) icing sugar, sifted; 2 tbsp key lime juice (for frosting); 1 tsp lime zest (for frosting); 1 – 2 tbsp cream or milk (as needed)

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Introduction

Key Lime Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting provide a zesty burst of tropical sweetness balanced by a soft, buttery crumb and creamy frosting. These delightful cupcakes are perfect for a sunny brunch, summer picnics, or any occasion that calls for a refreshing treat. If you love the classic taste of key lime pie, these cupcakes are an irresistible alternative that captures that signature flavor in a fun and portable form!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cupcakes with

Here are a few reasons to adore these cupcakes:

Deliciously tangy flavor from fresh key lime juice and zest.
Soft, moist texture that melts in your mouth.
Versatile recipe that allows for creative toppings like Key Lime Cupcakes with Coconut Topping or Key Lime Cupcakes with Graham Cracker Crust.
Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, reminiscent of Key Lime Cupcakes with Key Lime Pie Flavor.
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up a batch from scratch.
Ideal for summer parties and special occasions, satisfying all ages.

Ingredients for Key Lime Cupcakes with

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk
2 tbsp key lime juice (fresh)
1 tbsp key lime zest
¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
3 cups (360 g) icing sugar, sifted
2 tbsp key lime juice (for frosting)
1 tsp lime zest (for frosting)
1 – 2 tbsp cream or milk (as needed)

How to Make Key Lime Cupcakes with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
Step 2: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, lime juice, and zest.
Step 5: Add half the dry ingredients, then buttermilk, then the remaining flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Spoon batter ¾ full into liners. Bake 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 7: Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Step 8: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar, then lime juice, zest, and cream until light and fluffy.
Step 9: Pipe swirls on top and garnish with extra lime zest or candied lime slices.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Cupcakes with

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh key limes for the best flavor.
Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For a creamier topping, try Key Lime Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Experiment with unique toppings like Key Lime Cupcakes with Whipped Cream or Key Lime Cupcakes with Lime Buttercream.

Best Ways to Serve Key Lime Cupcakes with

These cupcakes shine at various occasions:

Serve at summer barbecues for a refreshing dessert option.
Pair with a tropical fruit salad for a vibrant dish.
Try serving Key Lime Cupcakes with a twist by adding flavored toppings like chocolate or coconut.

How to Store and Reheat Key Lime Cupcakes with

For best results, follow this storage method: store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat them, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for a few seconds to enjoy a warm treat again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Key Lime Cupcakes with

What’s the secret to perfect Key Lime Cupcakes with?

The secret lies in using fresh lime juice and zest. This enhances the flavor profile, ensuring a zesty and vibrant taste. Opting for Key Lime Cupcakes with unique toppings also adds an exciting twist!

Can I make Key Lime Cupcakes with ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cupcakes can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and frost them on the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Key Lime Cupcakes with?

To avoid common pitfalls, always measure ingredients accurately and don’t overmix the batter. This ensures a light and fluffy texture for your Easy Key Lime Cupcakes recipe.

Variations of Key Lime Cupcakes with You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to explore:

Key Lime Cupcakes with Coconut Topping: Add toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture.
Key Lime Cupcakes with Graham Cracker Crust: Incorporate crushed graham crackers into the batter for a pie-like experience.
Key Lime Cupcakes with Fresh Lime Juice: Use a blend of fresh key lime and regular lime juice for a unique flavor profile.

Key Lime Cupcakes with a Tropical Twist

Author: basmer
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Key Lime Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting provide a zesty burst of tropical sweetness balanced by a soft, buttery crumb and creamy frosting.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners.
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, lime juice, and zest.
Add half the dry ingredients, then buttermilk, then the remaining flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Spoon batter ¾ full into liners. Bake 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add icing sugar, then lime juice, zest, and cream until light and fluffy.
Pipe swirls on top and garnish with extra lime zest or candied lime slices.