Thursday, September 15, 2011

Key Lime Cupcakes

Ok, I know what you're thinking....key lime cupcakes in September?  Aren't we supposed to be going into fall and flavors like pumpkin spice?  I know, I know.  But in my defense I fixed these cupcakes back over the summer when key lime was a very relevant and appropriate flavor and am just now having time to post them.

I love baking cakes from scratch and normally do, but this recipe that uses box mix was too good not to pass on.  It's SO SO SO moist!  It's also a great recipe to whip up when you're short on time and/or ingredients.

I paired the cupcake with a cream cheese frosting, however I don't doubt you could pair it with a buttercream.  I just happen to believe that cream cheese makes everything taste better :)

Key Lime Cake
1 (18.25 oz) box lemon cake mix
1 1/3 cups vegetable oil
4 eggs
3 oz package lime flavored gelatin mix (aka jello)
3/4 C orange juice

Combine all ingredients and mix well.  Pour batter into prepared cupcake liners and bake according to box instructions.  *Make sure not to over-bake...otherwise these won't turn out as moist as they should*

Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz cream cheese
1/2 C margarine, softened
4 C confectioners sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Combine all ingredients into stand mixer and beat until smooth.  Frost cupcakes with desire tip.
*I always love lots of frosting and did an extra 1/2 of this recipe so I had plenty to work with.

I forgot to take pics while baking, but I did manage to sneak just one before all of these were gobbled up.  Enjoy!!