Key Lime Cupcakes Filled with Creamy Lime Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons key lime juice
1 tablespoon key lime zest
½ cup (120ml) whole milk
Green food coloring (optional)
For the Lime Filling:
½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons key lime juice
1 teaspoon key lime zest
For the Frosting:
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons key lime juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
For Garnish:
Lime slices
Lime zest
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cupcakes
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla, key lime juice, and zest.
Alternately mix in dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
Add a drop of green food coloring for a vibrant look (optional).
Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners and bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cupcakes cool completely before filling and frosting.
Step 2: Make the Lime Filling
In a small bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and zest until smooth.
Using a small knife or cupcake corer, scoop out the center of each cupcake.
Fill each hole with about 1 teaspoon of the lime filling.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
Beat butter until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
Add lime juice, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Pipe frosting onto cooled and filled cupcakes.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Top with a lime slice and a sprinkle of zest for extra flavor.
Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy the refreshing citrusy goodness! 🍋💚