Go Back
key lime cupcakes with buttercream frosting 2026 04 06 114515 683x1024 1

Key Lime Cupcakes

These Key Lime Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting offer a delightful tropical flavor, perfect for celebrations or an afternoon snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cupcake Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Make sure to soften to room temperature
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cups buttermilk
  • 0.25 cups key lime juice
  • Zest of 2 key limes
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.25 tsp salt
Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter, softened
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 key lime (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Mix in the buttermilk, key lime juice, and lime zest.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners.
Baking
  1. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
  1. For the frosting, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
  2. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until fluffy.
  3. Frost the cooled cupcakes and garnish with lime zest.

Notes

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For extra flavor, consider adding lime zest to the buttercream frosting.