Creamsicle Cupcakes

Creamsicle Cupcakes | The Merrythought
I’m a big fan of citrus flavored desserts (in case you couldn’t tell from my recent lemon posts). And I’ve always loved Creamsicle popsicles – that vanilla and orange combination is so perfect!  So when I saw a cupcake form of that flavor, I knew I had to try it.
And these creamsicle cupcakes are so dreamy. They are one of my favorite cupcakes. (Dare I even admit that since they use a box mix?!) The cupcakes are delicious with a subtle orange flavor, but it’s the orange cream cheese frosting and the little extra surprise of the marshmallow fluff inside the cupcakes that take these over the top.
With their yummy citrus flavor, these cupcakes are perfect to add to your summer party menu.
Creamsicle Cupcakes | The Merrythought

CREAMSICLE CUPCAKES

Orange Cupcakes:
1 box of vanilla cake mix
1/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon orange extract
1 teaspoon fresh orange zest

Orange Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter
1 8 oz. package cream cheese
4-6 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon orange extract
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon fresh orange zest
1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

Cupcake Filling:
1 jar (8oz) Marshmallow Fluff

Prepare cake as directed on box, but substitute the 1/4 cup of water with 1/4 cup of orange juice and also add the orange extract and fresh orange zest. Bake as directed on box. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once the cupcakes have cooled, cut a small round piece out of the tops of each cupcake and add 1-2  teaspoons marshmallow fluff.  (I find that the fluff is easier to work with when heated in the microwave a little bit). Replace the cake piece and set cupcakes aside.

Beat butter in the bowl of an electric mixer until smooth. Add cream cheese and beat until smooth. Add powdered sugar (a little at a time), extracts, orange zest and juice.  (I like to add a little extra zest & juice for a stronger orange flavor).  If necessary, gradually add remaining 2 cups sugar to reach desired consistency. Continue to beat 1-2 additional minute’s until fully combined, and nice and fluffy.
(In warm weather, place frosting in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up before piping.)

Top marshmallow filled cupcakes with frosting. (I used a Wilton 1M tip to pipe the frosting).

Enjoy!

Creamsicle Cupcakes |  The Merrythought

Happy baking! Manda

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(Recipe Source: adapted from Glorious Treats)

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