If you’re craving a dessert that bursts with zesty freshness and melts delightfully in your mouth, you’re going to love this Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes are a bright and tangy twist on the classic cupcake, combining smooth cream cheese frosting infused with key lime juice and zest with a moist, tender cake base. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a sunny pick-me-up pastry, these cupcakes deliver a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to this Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe, the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy butter and tangy key lime juice to the fluffy flour and rich cream cheese frosting, every component makes these cupcakes irresistibly delicious.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup total, softened): Provides tenderness and richness to both the cake and frosting without overpowering the lime flavor.
- Sugar (1/2 cup) and brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brown sugar adds subtle molasses notes that deepen the sweetness and moisture.
- Key lime extract (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Boosts that iconic key lime flavor for an extra citrus punch.
- Key lime juice (4 tablespoons total): The star ingredient that delivers tangy brightness and a fresh zip.
- Key lime zest (3 teaspoons total): Adds aromatic oils and flavor intensity from the rind for a true key lime experience.
- Large eggs (2): Act as a binder and add richness to the cupcake batter.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) and baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for a light and airy texture.
- Flour (1 3/4 cups): The foundation for the cupcake’s structure.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Creates a smooth and tangy frosting that complements the cake beautifully.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that luscious, fluffy consistency.
How to Make Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Begin by creaming together the softened unsalted butter, sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air into the batter, which means lighter cupcakes later. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the key lime extract if you have it, followed by the key lime juice and zest to infuse the batter with fresh citrusy bursts.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently but thoroughly until smooth. The gentle mixing helps keep the cupcakes tender without overdeveloping the gluten, which can make them tough.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cupcake tins with paper liners. Fill each liner about two-thirds full with batter, making sure not to overfill to prevent overflowing. Bake for about 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As they bake, your kitchen will start to fill with that delightful aroma of fresh lime and sugar—almost impossible to resist.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the key lime cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the salt, key lime juice, and zest, then gradually mix in powdered sugar until you achieve a fluffy consistency. This frosting is the perfect tangy and sweet complement to the cupcake’s tender crumb.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag. This final touch not only decorates the cupcakes but provides that luscious, velvety mouthfeel that makes this Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe truly stand out.
How to Serve Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
To make these cupcakes look as delightful as they taste, sprinkle extra key lime zest or finely chopped candied lime peel on top of the frosting. A small wedge of fresh lime can add a festive flair when serving to guests, enhancing the visual appeal and hinting at the citrus flavors within.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a light and refreshing cup of tea or a crisp icy lemonade. For a more indulgent option, try serving them alongside coconut milk ice cream or a tropical fruit salad with mango and pineapple to keep the vibrant, summery theme going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand garnished with fresh lime leaves and edible flowers for an eye-catching display. You could also dip the edges of each frosted cupcake in toasted coconut flakes to add texture and a tropical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week or for unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe ahead of time, you can freeze the un-frosted cupcakes in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and then frost before serving for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To revive the softness of frozen or refrigerated cupcakes, warm them gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This will bring back that fresh-baked feel without drying them out. Add frosting afterward if you’ve stored cupcakes unfrosted.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime instead of key lime?
Absolutely! While key limes provide a slightly more intense and aromatic flavor, regular lime juice and zest can serve as a great substitute and still give you that lovely citrus punch.
Is key lime extract necessary?
No, key lime extract is optional. It enhances the lime flavor, but the fresh key lime juice and zest already deliver excellent citrus aroma and taste, so your cupcakes will still be fantastic without it.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor might vary slightly, but the cupcakes will still be enjoyable and lime-packed.
How long do these cupcakes last at room temperature?
Since the frosting contains cream cheese, it’s best to keep the cupcakes refrigerated if not consumed within a couple of hours to ensure freshness and safety.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe scales up beautifully—just be sure to adjust baking time accordingly and work in batches to keep the batter fresh and rise perfect.
Final Thoughts
These Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe are a true celebration of sunny, citrusy flavors wrapped up in a tender, creamy delight. They bring a touch of brightness and joy to any gathering or simple afternoon treat. I hope you give them a try soon and discover just how irresistible these cupcakes can be—once you do, they might just become your go-to summer dessert as much as they are mine!
Print
Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 46 minutes
- Yield: 18 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Key Lime Cupcakes are a delightful treat featuring a moist, citrus-infused cake with the tart flavor of key lime, topped with a creamy, tangy key lime cream cheese frosting. Perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a refreshing and zesty dessert.
Ingredients
Cupcake Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon key lime extract (optional)
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice
- 2 teaspoons key lime zest
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cupcake pans with paper liners to ready them for the batter.
- Make the cupcake batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in key lime extract (if using), key lime juice, and key lime zest. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda, then gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fill cupcake liners and bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and creamy. Add salt, key lime juice, and zest; mix well. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the key lime cream cheese frosting generously over each cupcake.
- Serve and enjoy: Optionally, garnish with additional lime zest or small lime slices. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy. For best flavor, bring cupcakes to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- If fresh key limes are unavailable, substitute with regular lime zest and juice for similar flavor.
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth frosting.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and tender.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow refrigerated cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
