Go Back Email Link

Key Lime Cupcakes Recipe

These Key Lime Cupcakes are soft, tangy, and filled with a creamy surprise, topped with silky lime frosting and a touch of green sparkle.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp key lime zest
  • ¼ cup key lime juice
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • Green sugar sprinkles
  • 3-4 drops green food coloring
  • Lime slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour and baking powder in a bowl to distribute evenly.
  • Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, key lime zest, and juice.
  • Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually mix in the flour mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Stir gently, then add food coloring if using.
  • Bake: Fill liners ⅔ full and bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before filling and frosting.
  • Make the Filling: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and key lime juice until smooth.
  • Prepare the Frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar, key lime juice, and vanilla, then beat until fluffy.
  • Fill & Frost: Cut a small hole in each cupcake, fill with cream cheese mixture, then pipe frosting on top. Sprinkle with green sugar and garnish with a lime slice.