A Boozy, Citrusy Treat That Tastes Like a Party in Every Bite!
Kitchies! Imagine a fluffy, zesty cupcake with a hint of tequila and lime, topped with a luscious tequila-infused buttercream frosting—it’s basically a margarita in dessert form. These Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting are the ultimate treat for Cinco de Mayo, summer barbecues, or any time you need a fun, boozy dessert.
The cupcakes are light, slightly tangy from fresh lime zest, and have a subtle warmth from tequila baked right in. But the real magic happens on top: a buttercream frosting with just the right balance of sweetness, citrus, and a splash of tequila for that extra punch. Add a sprinkle of flaky salt, and you’ve got yourself a dessert that’s dangerously good.
Whether you’re throwing a party, celebrating Taco Tuesday, or just looking for a grown-up dessert, these margarita cupcakes will steal the show. They’re fun, festive, and full of bright, citrusy flavors that will make you feel like you’re sipping a margarita on a beach.
Why You’ll Love These Margarita Cupcakes
These cupcakes aren’t just another sweet treat—they bring big margarita energy in every bite!
- Infused with real tequila – Both in the batter and the frosting for extra flavor.
- Bright & citrusy – Fresh lime zest and juice make these cupcakes pop.
- Soft & moist – Thanks to buttermilk and just the right balance of ingredients.
- Fun for parties – A boozy dessert that’s perfect for celebrations!
- Easy to make – No fancy techniques, just simple, delicious ingredients.
Cuisine: American/Mexican-inspired
Tips for the Best Margarita Cupcakes
- Use fresh lime juice – It makes all the difference in flavor!
- For a stronger tequila taste, brush the cupcakes with a little tequila after baking.
- Don’t overmix the batter – This keeps the cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Chill the frosting if it gets too soft before piping.
Substitutions and Variations
- Make them non-alcoholic – Skip the tequila and add more lime juice.
- Dairy-free option – Use dairy-free butter and almond milk instead of buttermilk.
- Swap the liquor – Try triple sec or Grand Marnier for a twist.
- Add a crunch – Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for a margarita pie vibe.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use whole wheat pastry flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Reduce sugar slightly in both the cupcakes and frosting.
- Try Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for extra protein.
And there you have it!
A fun, boozy, and absolutely delicious treat that will bring a little fiesta to any occasion. These Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting are light, zesty, and bursting with fresh lime flavor, plus a little tequila kick!
Make a batch, enjoy with a margarita (because why not?), and let me know what you think! 🍹🧁
Relevant Categories:
Dessert, Summer Recipes, Party Recipes, Boozy Desserts
Tags:
margarita cupcakes, tequila cupcakes, lime cupcakes, boozy desserts, summer treats, Cinco de Mayo desserts
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature.
2. Can I freeze the cupcakes?
Absolutely! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months, then frost before serving.
3. How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
4. Can I use gold tequila instead of silver?
Yes! Gold tequila will add a slightly richer, caramelized flavor.
5. Do these actually taste like a margarita?
They sure do! They have all the flavors—lime, tequila, and a touch of salt.
6. Can I add salt to the frosting?
Yes! A tiny pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly.
7. How strong is the tequila flavor?
It’s subtle but present. If you want more, brush baked cupcakes with extra tequila.
8. Can I turn these into a cake?
Yes! Pour the batter into an 8-inch round cake pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
9. What piping tip should I use for the frosting?
A Wilton 1M or 2D tip creates a beautiful swirl.
10. Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled will work in a pinch!
Hope you love these! Let me know if you try them! 😊
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Margarita Cupcakes with Tequila Lime Frosting
Description
Imagine a fluffy, zesty cupcake with a hint of tequila and lime, topped with a luscious tequila-infused buttercream frosting—it’s basically a margarita in dessert form.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons tequila (silver or blanco)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ cup buttermilk
For the Tequila Lime Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon tequila
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish (Optional):
- Lime wedges or zest
- Flaky sea salt
- Coarse sugar
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the tequila, vanilla extract, lime zest, and lime juice.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the tequila, lime juice, lime zest, vanilla, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, lime zest, or a lime wedgefor extra margarita vibes!
