Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting

These Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting bring the flavors of your favorite cocktail into a delicious dessert! Light, citrusy cupcakes infused with lime and tequila are topped with a creamy, tangy tequila-lime buttercream for the ultimate treat. Perfect for summer parties, Cinco de Mayo, or any occasion that calls for a little extra fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright & Zesty Flavor – Fresh lime juice and zest add a refreshing citrus kick.
• Light & Fluffy Texture – A moist vanilla cupcake base with a hint of tequila.
• Boozy & Fun – Just the right amount of tequila for a grown-up treat.
• Perfect for Celebrations – Great for parties, birthdays, or summer gatherings.
• Easily Customizable – Make them non-alcoholic or add a salt rim for extra flair!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Margarita Cupcakes:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Lime zest
• Fresh lime juice
• Tequila
• Whole milk

For the Tequila Lime Frosting:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Lime zest
• Fresh lime juice
• Tequila
• Heavy cream (as needed)

Optional Garnishes:

• Lime wedges or zest
• Coarse sugar or salt (for a margarita-style rim)
• Extra tequila drizzle

Directions

Step 1: Make the Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk dry ingredients – In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter & sugar – Beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs & flavoring – Mix in eggs, vanilla extract, lime zest, and lime juice.
5. Incorporate dry ingredients – Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with milk and tequila, until combined.
6. Bake – Fill cupcake liners ¾ full and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool completely – Let the cupcakes cool before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Tequila Lime Frosting

1. Beat butter – In a bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar – Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add lime & tequila – Stir in lime zest, lime juice, and tequila.
4. Adjust consistency – If needed, add heavy cream for a smoother texture.

Step 3: Frost & Decorate

1. Pipe or spread frosting – Frost cooled cupcakes with the tequila lime buttercream.
2. Garnish – Sprinkle coarse sugar or salt on the edges, and top with lime zest or wedges.
3. Optional tequila drizzle – Lightly drizzle extra tequila on top for a bolder flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Non-Alcoholic Version – Replace tequila with orange juice or extra lime juice.
• Extra Boozy – Brush warm cupcakes with tequila before frosting.
• Coconut Margarita Cupcakes – Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Margarita – Mix a pinch of chili powder into the frosting for a kick.
• Frozen Margarita Style – Serve with a dollop of whipped cream instead of buttercream.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before decorating.
• Reheating: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

How strong is the tequila flavor?

It’s subtle but noticeable. You can adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I make mini cupcakes?

Yes! Bake mini cupcakes for 10-12 minutes.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

Add a pinch of salt or more lime juice to balance the sweetness.

Can I use a different alcohol?

Yes! Try rum for a mojito twist or triple sec for a citrusy kick.

Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?

Overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too soon can cause sinking.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge and re-whip before using.

How do I get a perfect frosting swirl?

Use a piping bag with a star tip for a bakery-style look.

Can I add a sugar or salt rim?

Absolutely! Lightly brush the edges of the cupcakes with lime juice, then dip in coarse sugar or salt.

What pairs well with these cupcakes?

A classic margarita, fresh fruit, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Conclusion

These Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting are a fun and festive way to enjoy the flavors of a margarita in dessert form. Light, citrusy, and slightly boozy, they’re perfect for parties, Cinco de Mayo, or any celebration. Try them today and add a little fiesta to your dessert table!

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