Go Back
–+ servings
Margarita Cupcakes

Margarita Cupcakes

The Crispy Chef
These margarita cupcakes perfectly capture the zesty, lime-kissed magic of the classic cocktail in a portable, boozy dessert form. Tangy cream cheese frosting with a hint of tequila and a salted rim make them a crowd-pleaser for adult gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Zester or grater
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

Cake:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
  • Zest of 2 limes
  • 2-3 tbsp tequila
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp tequila
  • Pinch of salt

For garnish:

  • Kosher salt or colored sugar for rimming
  • Lime slices optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract, lime juice, lime zest, and tequila.
  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  • Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners (about 2/3 full).
  • Bake 16-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  • For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then lime juice, tequila, and salt. Mix until creamy.
  • Frost cooled cupcakes. Dip or sprinkle edges with kosher salt or colored sugar to mimic a margarita rim. Garnish with lime slices if desired.
  • Serve and enjoy responsibly!

Notes

Use fresh lime juice and zest for best flavor. Bottled juice won’t give the same zing.
Don’t add too much tequila to avoid dense cupcakes.
Cupcakes taste even better the next day after flavors meld.
For variations, try adding pureed strawberries or coconut extract to the batter.
Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSugar: 25g
Keyword margarita cupcakes
Tried this recipe?Mention @Thecrispycheff or tag #Thecrispychef!