Ingredients:
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from about 4-5 limes)
2 tablespoons lime zest (from the same limes)
1/4 cup tequila
1/4 cup triple sec (or any orange liqueur)
For the Margarita Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons tequila
2 tablespoons triple sec
Lime slices or wedges and coarse salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
For the Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix the fresh lime juice, lime zest, tequila, and triple sec into the wet ingredients.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the liquid mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Margarita Buttercream:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
Mix in the fresh lime juice, tequila, and triple sec until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Assembly:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Margarita Buttercream on top of the cupcakes using your preferred decorating tip.
Optionally, garnish with a thin lime slice or wedge on top of each cupcake and a sprinkle of coarse salt for that classic Margarita look.
These Margarita Cupcakes bring the zesty and refreshing flavors of a classic cocktail into a delightful dessert. They’re perfect for parties or when you want to enjoy the essence of a Margarita in a different form. Cheers!