Name: Margarita Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489512H19M
Total time: PT-489512H19M
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk; Zest and fresh juice of 3 medium limes; Optional: 2 tablespoons tequila (for brushing after baking); 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 4 cups (480g) confectioners’ sugar; 3-4 tablespoons (45-60ml) tequila; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; Lime flavoring (such as lime extract or lime juice concentrate); Pinch of salt, to taste; Optional: lime slices, lime zest, and/or coarse sugar for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 79 reviews

If you love the refreshing zing of a classic margarita cocktail, then you’re in for a real treat with this Margarita Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes combine the perfect balance of sweet, tangy lime flavor with a subtle kick of tequila, all wrapped up in a tender, moist cupcake base and topped with the most irresistible fluffy lime frosting. It’s like enjoying your favorite margarita in a fun, bite-sized form that’s perfect for parties, celebrations, or just because life calls for a little fiesta in your day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two parts: on the left, a clear glass bowl filled with smooth pale yellow batter with tiny green specks, a silver whisk with a copper handle resting inside, squeezed lime halves, a whole lime, measuring cups, and a metal grater are around the bowl on a white marbled surface; on the right, a white muffin pan holds six colorful rainbow cupcake liners, each filled to about three-quarters with the same batter from the bowl, and part of another glass bowl with more batter is visible at the top right corner, all placed on the same white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to deliver the authentic margarita experience in cupcake form. Each brings something special—flour and baking powder create that light, tender crumb; fresh limes provide vibrant lime flavor and aroma; and tequila adds a subtle warmth that makes these cupcakes truly unique.

1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cupcake, providing structure and softness.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps your cupcakes rise beautifully and stay airy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender texture to the cupcakes.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcake base just right without overpowering the lime.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything together and add moisture.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and contributes to a moist crumb.
Zest and fresh juice of 3 medium limes: The star of the show, providing fresh, tangy citrus brightness.
Optional: 2 Tablespoons tequila for brushing: Adds a delicate tequila kick to the cupcakes themselves.
1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened for frosting: Gives the frosting its creamy, dreamy texture.
4 cups (480g) confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light.
3-4 Tablespoons (45-60ml) tequila for frosting: Delivers authentic margarita flavor in every bite.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for frosting: Enhances the overall taste, rounding out the flavors.
Lime flavoring (optional): Boosts the lime notes in the frosting if you want extra zing.
Pinch of salt for frosting: Balances the sweetness and heightens the lime’s brightness.
Optional garnishes: lime slices, lime zest, coarse sugar: Add a festive finishing touch to your cupcakes.

How to Make Margarita Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Liners

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking. Line a 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners—this not only makes for easier serving but helps the cupcakes bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures these ingredients are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent texture throughout the cupcakes.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter on high speed until it’s smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Then add the sugar and beat for an additional 2 minutes. This creaming step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which creates a light cupcake crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

With the mixer running on low, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract. Scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition guarantees everything mixes evenly.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk with Lime

Slowly add the dry ingredients in parts, alternating with the milk, all while mixing on low speed. Once combined, crank the mixer up to high and fold in the lime zest and fresh lime juice. Be careful not to overmix here; you want the batter just combined for tender cupcakes.

Step 6: Bake and Tequila Brush

Fill each cupcake liner about halfway to two thirds full to prevent overflows. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If you opt for mini cupcakes, bake for 11-13 minutes. When they’re out of the oven and still warm, brush the tops gently with tequila. This adds a subtle boozy punch that sets these cupcakes apart!

Step 7: Make the Frosting

Beat the softened butter on high speed until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, starting slow then increasing the speed, allowing each addition to incorporate fully. Next, add the tequila, vanilla extract, lime flavoring (if using), and a pinch of salt. Beat everything on high until luscious and fluffy. Taste and adjust to your preferred balance of sweet and tangy.

Step 8: Frost and Garnish

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with your choice of piping tip, like the Wilton 1M or Wilton #12 round. To finish, decorate with lime slices, a sprinkle of lime zest, or coarse sugar for that extra sparkle and freshness.

How to Serve Margarita Cupcakes Recipe

Four cupcakes in white paper liners with rainbow edges are placed on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has one thick layer of smooth, swirled white frosting topped with a small, fresh lime wedge. Around the cupcakes, there are several lime slices scattered. To the right, there is a clear glass with ice, a salted rim, a pink-and-white striped straw, and a lime wedge on the rim. In the bottom left corner, a white piping bag with a metal tip rests on the surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like thin lime slices, fresh lime zest, or a dusting of coarse sugar elevates the presentation and adds layers of texture and brightness. They hint at the zesty flavor inside and make the cupcakes irresistible to the eye as well as the palate.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a crisp fruit salad, a creamy coconut mousse, or simply with a chilled margarita cocktail to keep the theme going. The light, citrusy cupcakes are perfect for balancing richer or sweeter sides, making your dessert table a real crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, consider placing margarita cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand surrounded by mini salt-rimmed margarita glasses or lime wedges. You could also serve them in festive cupcake wrappers featuring bright colors, or add edible glitter for a little extra sparkle. Presentation is part of the fun, and these cupcakes lend themselves well to any celebration vibe you want to create.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Margarita Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, pop them in the fridge to keep the frosting stable, though let them come back to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

To freeze, place unfrosted cooled cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting for a fresh-from-scratch taste whenever the mood strikes.

Reheating

If you want to serve your cupcakes slightly warm, let refrigerated cupcakes sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can affect the texture and frosting consistency. Enjoy the cupcakes as is for the best margarita-inspired experience.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes without tequila?

Yes! If you prefer to skip the alcohol, simply omit the tequila in both the batter and frosting. You might add a little extra lime juice or zest to keep the bright citrus flavor front and center.

What can I use instead of whole milk?

Whole milk provides richness, but you can substitute it with 2% milk or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk with excellent results.

How do I get the frosting to be fluffy and not too heavy?

Beating the butter thoroughly before adding the sugar and gradually incorporating confectioners’ sugar while keeping the mixer speed varied helps create that light, airy frosting that’s perfect for Margarita Cupcakes Recipe.

Can I make mini Margarita cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake them for about 11-13 minutes at the same temperature, and adjust your frosting and garnish accordingly for adorable, bite-sized treats.

What’s the best way to store frosted cupcakes?

Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, especially if your kitchen is warm, to keep the frosting fresh. Bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Margarita Cupcakes Recipe is such a delightful way to bring a splash of sunshine and fun to any occasion. Fresh lime, a touch of tequila, and fluffy frosting come together in a cupcake that’s bursting with bright, festive flavor. I promise everyone who tries them will ask for the recipe (and maybe a second cupcake). So go ahead, treat yourself and your friends—these cupcakes are sure to make any day feel like a celebration!