Orange Velvet Cupcakes with Creamy Frosting

These delightful Orange Velvet Cupcakes are a vibrant twist on the classic velvet cake, infused with zesty orange flavor and topped with a creamy frosting. The addition of orange food coloring gives them a sunny appeal, making them perfect for any festive occasion. They are sweet, moist, and bursting with citrusy goodness, ensuring a delightful treat for all dessert lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup cupcake oil
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1-2 drops orange food coloring
• 1 cup frosting mix
• ¼ cup milk (for frosting preparation)
• Optional: orange slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, cupcake oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Add the orange food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
5. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing the frosting mix with milk according to package directions until smooth.
8. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the prepared frosting.
9. Optional: Garnish with orange slices for an extra touch of freshness.
10. Serve and enjoy your vibrant Orange Velvet Cupcakes!