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Refreshing Triple Citrus Cupcakes

These cupcakes are bursting with the vibrant flavors of lemon, lime, and orange, making them the ultimate treat for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cups buttermilk
  • 1 each Zest of 1 lemon, 1 lime, and 1 orange
  • 1.5 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Citrus Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 each Additional citrus zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating each before adding the next, and then mix in the vanilla extract.
  • Stir in the lemon, lime, and orange zest.

Baking

  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk until just combined.
  • Scoop the batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Frosting

  • Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well.
  • Mix in the citrus juices and salt, adjusting the consistency with additional citrus juice or powdered sugar as needed.

Finishing Touches

  • Frost the cooled cupcakes generously and garnish with additional citrus zest if desired.

Notes

These cupcakes can be made a day in advance; frost them just before serving. They also freeze beautifully—frost after thawing for best results.
Keyword Baking, citrus, Cupcakes, dessert, sweet treats