Orange Vanilla Cream Cupcakes

Name: Orange Vanilla Cream Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I love creating desserts that bring joy and delight, and these Orange Vanilla Cream Cupcakes have quickly become one of my favorites. The vibrant orange flavor paired with the creamy vanilla frosting creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to get such a refreshing taste. Plus, the cupcakes are light and fluffy, making them irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy they bring!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:10:28.657Z

When I first baked these cupcakes, I was surprised by how the combination of orange zest and vanilla creates a luxurious flavor. From the juicy orange juice to the fragrant zest, every bite bursts with citrusy goodness. This recipe is forgiving, which is great for beginners, and you can always adjust the sugar for a more or less sweet result.

What I love most about these cupcakes is how they stay moist even a couple of days after baking. I often make a batch and store them for when unexpected guests drop by. A sprinkle of orange zest on top of the frosting adds an extra pop of flavor and looks stunning!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Zesty orange flavor complemented by creamy vanilla frosting
Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat

Mastering the Cupcake Texture

Achieving the perfect light and fluffy cupcake texture is essential. To do this, make sure your butter is softened but not melted; it should easily hold an indentation when pressed. Creaming the butter with sugar until pale and fluffy introduces air into the batter, which helps the cupcakes rise beautifully. Avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense cupcakes. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see any streaks of flour in the batter.

Another crucial factor is measuring your flour accurately. Too much flour can result in dry cupcakes. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. The right flour-to-liquid ratio is key to achieving that delightful softness everyone enjoys. If you're working with a dry climate, you might need to slightly decrease your flour amount to maintain moisture.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The zesty orange flavor in these cupcakes is what makes them stand out. For an extra pop of flavor, consider using freshly squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought, as it has a brighter and more vibrant taste. Additionally, using organic oranges allows you to enjoy the zest without worrying about chemical residues, enhancing the natural citrus notes. You can even experiment with adding a splash of orange liqueur such as Grand Marnier in the batter for a more adult twist.

When preparing the frosting, the quality of the heavy whipping cream matters. Look for cream with a higher fat content as it whips up better, yielding a richer consistency. For a fun variation, you can fold in some orange curd into the whipped cream for additional flavor and creaminess. This little twist elevates the overall taste, making each bite a burst of citrus joy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before starting:

Cupcake Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (for garnish)

Ensure you have everything ready before starting to bake.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cupcakes:

Prepare the Oven and Cupcake Liners

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavoring

Add eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and combine well.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fill the Cupcake Liners

Spoon the batter into the lined cupcake pan, filling each liner about 2/3 full.

Bake the Cupcakes

Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, pipe the frosting on top and sprinkle with orange zest for garnish.

Enjoy your beautifully decorated cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For a burst of flavor, try adding an extra splash of orange juice to the frosting. This adds a refreshing twist that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These cupcakes can be baked a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for parties or gatherings. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh and delicious. If you prefer to frost them later, leave the cupcakes unfrosted for optimal texture and to prevent them from becoming soggy.

If you have any leftover cupcakes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the unfrosted cupcakes. Allow them to cool completely, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.

Frosting Variations

While the vanilla frosting is a delightful pairing, you can switch things up with various flavors. For a chocolate version, simply add unsweetened cocoa powder to the heavy cream before whipping. Adjust the sweetness with powdered sugar to achieve your desired flavor level. This adds an unexpected twist to the zesty cupcakes, perfect for chocolate lovers.

You can also try incorporating different extracts, like almond or coconut, into the frosting for an alternate flavor profile. Experimenting with fresh herbs, like mint, blended into your frosting can add a refreshing element that pairs well with the citrus flavors. Whatever variation you choose, just ensure the frosting maintains its whipped texture for easy piping.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another citrus juice?

Yes, lemon or lime juice can be substituted for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze them without frosting for up to a month. Thaw and frost before serving.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream for the frosting?

You can use whipped topping or cream cheese for a different frosting option.