Zingy Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

Get ready to transform your favorite refreshing summer drink into an extraordinary dessert with these delightful Cherry Limeade Cupcakes. Imagine biting into a moist, vibrant lime-flavored cake, generously crowned with a cloud of rich, cherry-infused icing – it’s a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible and guaranteed to bring smiles all around. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a special weeknight treat, these cupcakes capture the essence of a classic cherry limeade in every delicious mouthful, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking for an easy yet impressive baking project.

These aren’t just any ordinary cupcakes; they are a celebration of summer flavors, designed to be both stunningly beautiful and incredibly easy to make. Their cheerful, bright red frosting, often garnished with a fresh lime wedge and a glistening maraschino cherry, makes them look like they’ve come straight from a gourmet bakery display. But don’t let their sophisticated appearance fool you – this recipe is straightforward enough for any home baker to master, from beginners to seasoned pros. They truly become the undisputed star of any dessert table, inviting everyone to indulge in their tangy-sweet charm, leaving guests asking for the recipe.

If you’re a devoted fan of the delightful combination of cherry and lime, or simply seeking new dessert inspiration to brighten your day, these cupcakes are an absolute must-try. Their refreshing flavor profile makes them a standout. Beyond these fantastic creations, you might also enjoy exploring other cherry-inspired treats like our popular Cherry Almond Cupcakes, the comforting and nostalgic Cherry Chip Cake, or a selection from our comprehensive list of the Best Cherry Desserts for year-round enjoyment. For those who love classic baking with a twist, our Snickerdoodle Cupcakes are always a guaranteed hit. And for a truly homemade touch that elevates any cherry-flavored creation, consider making your own Homemade Cherry Pie Filling – it’s easier than you think and adds incredible depth of flavor.

The Magic of Cherry Limeade Cupcakes: A Refreshing Twist on Dessert

Cherry Limeade Cupcakes are far more than just a simple sweet treat; they represent a delightful culinary experience that brilliantly transforms the tangy-sweet flavors of the classic cherry limeade beverage into a crave-worthy, individual dessert. At its core, this innovative recipe features a wonderfully moist, lime-flavored cake, ingeniously achieved by infusing a straightforward white cake mix with the zesty brightness of lime gelatin. This clever combination not only imparts a fantastic, authentic citrus flavor but also ensures an incredibly tender and springy crumb, a hallmark of a truly great cupcake. The vibrant cake is then generously crowned with a luscious, bright red cherry-flavored buttercream frosting, creating a harmonious balance of tangy lime and sweet cherry that dances on your palate with every bite. It’s this unique blend of refreshing flavors, coupled with their universally appealing and eye-catching appearance, that makes these cupcakes an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from casual summer barbecues and picnics to more festive holiday gatherings. They offer a nostalgic nod to simpler times and beloved childhood drinks, while simultaneously delivering a sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to all ages and palates.

Essential Ingredients for Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

Crafting these amazing cherry limeade cupcakes requires a carefully selected list of ingredients, most of which are convenient pantry staples you likely already have on hand. The true beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity, relying on these readily available items to come together and create a truly spectacular, flavor-packed dessert. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need for both the refreshingly zesty lime cupcakes and the rich, creamy cherry frosting that crowns them.

For the Irresistible Lime Cupcakes

• Box White Cake Mix: This serves as your convenient and reliable foundation, allowing for incredibly quick preparation without any compromise on the final flavor or texture. Be sure to carefully read and have the additional ingredients listed on the back of the box readily available, which typically include standard baking essentials such as eggs and a neutral oil. Utilizing a white cake mix is key, as it provides a neutral and light-colored canvas that perfectly allows the vibrant green hue and distinct tangy lime flavor to shine through without competition.
• Lime Jello Mix: This is truly the secret ingredient responsible for that incredible burst of tangy lime flavor and, perhaps even more importantly, the unparalleled moisture of the finished cake! A standard 3 oz box is typically sufficient for a single batch of cupcakes. Don’t hesitate to use store-brand options, as they work just as effectively and reliably as national brands, ensuring a delicious outcome regardless of your choice. This gelatin not only enhances the flavor profile significantly but also gives the cake a beautiful, delicate light green hue and an exceptionally tender, almost pudding-like, moist texture that sets these cupcakes apart.
• Water: An indispensable component for preparing the lime gelatin mixture. When boiled and mixed with the jello powder, it creates the liquid infusion that will seep into your baked cupcakes, imbuing them with an extra layer of refreshing moisture and an intense, authentic lime flavor.

For the Luscious Cherry Frosting

• Unsalted Butter: It is absolutely essential that your butter is at proper room temperature (softened but not melted). This critical detail is the key to achieving a beautifully smooth, wonderfully creamy, and incredibly light consistency in your buttercream frosting. Using unsalted butter also grants you complete control over the overall saltiness of your finished dessert, allowing the sweet and tart flavors to truly sing.
• Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This is the fundamental backbone of your rich and stable buttercream. For best results and an exquisitely smooth frosting, sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the butter is highly recommended. This crucial step ensures that any lumps are thoroughly removed, resulting in an exceptionally silky and lump-free frosting that is an absolute dream to pipe and spread, creating professional-looking swirls.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: A modest amount of heavy whipping cream plays a vital role in achieving that coveted light, airy, and fluffy texture for the buttercream. It also subtly enhances the richness of the frosting without making it overly heavy, contributing to a truly decadent mouthfeel.
• Cherry Extract: This powerful and concentrated extract is precisely what imparts the frosting with its distinctive and utterly delightful cherry flavor, creating a perfect and harmonious complement to the zesty lime cake. You have the flexibility to adjust the amount of extract added to your personal preference, allowing you to create either a more subtle or an intensely bold cherry taste.
• Red Food Coloring: To achieve that iconic, vibrant, and eye-catching cherry red hue, red food coloring is an indispensable ingredient. You possess complete control to adjust the quantity added, enabling you to create anything from a delicate, charming pink to a deep, dramatic, and rich red, making your cupcakes not only delicious but also visually stunning and festive. Gel food coloring is often the preferred choice for its concentrated color payoff without unnecessarily adding excess liquid that could alter the frosting’s ideal consistency.

These carefully selected ingredients, when combined with precision and care, work in perfect harmony to create a balanced and utterly delicious cupcake that manages to be both refreshing and indulgent. The full list with precise measurements for optimal results can be found in the detailed recipe card conveniently located below.

Customize Your Cupcakes: Creative Variations and Delightful Additions

While the classic Cherry Limeade Cupcake recipe stands as a perfect treat on its own, there are numerous exciting ways to personalize this delightful dessert and truly make it uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these simple yet impactful variations and additions, which can enhance the existing flavors, introduce new dimensions, or simply add extra visual appeal, turning your cupcakes into bespoke creations.

• Amplify the Lime Flavor with Zest or Syrup: For an even more pronounced and aromatic lime punch, consider finely grating the zest of one or two fresh limes directly into your cake batter alongside the other wet ingredients. Lime zest contains concentrated essential oils that carry an intense citrus flavor, providing a bright, refreshing aroma. Alternatively, a few drops of natural lime syrup or even a tablespoon of concentrated limeade, carefully folded into the batter, can significantly boost the tangy profile of the cake, making the lime notes truly sing and resonate with every bite.
• Deepen Flavor with Fresh Lime Juice: Incorporating fresh lime juice, whether you add a tablespoon to the cake batter itself or mix it directly into the jello mixture before infusion, introduces an authentic, vibrant acidity that elevates the overall flavor complexity of the cupcake. If fresh limes are not readily available or convenient, a good quality limeade concentrate can also work wonders, providing a convenient and reliable way to infuse that essential zesty goodness. When adding fresh juice to the batter, be mindful not to add too much liquid, as it can subtly affect the delicate texture of the cake.
• Add Festive Sprinkles for Visual Appeal: To make your cherry limeade cupcakes even more festive, playful, and visually appealing, a generous dusting of colorful sprinkles is always a fantastic idea. You can opt for traditional sugar sprinkles in complementary shades of red, green, or white to match the theme, or choose sparkling crystal sprinkles for an extra touch of glamour and sophistication. Sprinkles not only add a delightful contrasting texture but also make these treats even more enticing and celebratory, especially perfect for birthdays, parties, or any joyous occasion.
• Experiment with Different Jello Flavors: While lime jello is the traditional and classic choice that gives these cupcakes their signature flavor, don’t be afraid to venture into new territory by experimenting with other complementary gelatin flavors. For instance, substituting strawberry jello would create a delicious Strawberry Cherry cupcake, or even using raspberry jello could introduce a different, equally delightful berry twist that appeals to various tastes.
• Alternative Frosting Options: For those who might prefer a less sweet or a tangier frosting, a luscious cream cheese frosting, infused with cherry extract, could be a truly fantastic and equally indulgent alternative to the traditional buttercream. This variation offers a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
• Elevate with Thoughtful Garnishes: Beyond the classic and simple lime wedge and maraschino cherry, consider other elegant garnishes. A thin slice of candied lime can add both beauty and a chewy texture, a light sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes might introduce an unexpected tropical note, or even a tiny, fresh mint leaf can provide an extra pop of color, a refreshing aroma, and a hint of sophistication.

These creative ideas provide a versatile starting point for your baking journey, allowing you to easily tailor your Cherry Limeade Cupcakes to perfectly match your specific taste preferences, dietary considerations, or the theme of any special occasion. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to discover your new favorite flavor combination and create truly memorable desserts!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

Creating these vibrant, moist, and intensely flavorful Cherry Limeade Cupcakes is a surprisingly straightforward process that consistently yields impressive and delicious results. By carefully following these detailed, easy-to-understand steps, you’ll be well on your way to baking perfectly tender cakes and achieving that luxuriously creamy, delectable frosting every single time. Let’s get baking!

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and ensuring your muffin tin is lined with clean paper liners – this aids in easy removal and cleanup. In a spacious large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the contents of your box white cake mix with all the additional wet and dry ingredients specified on its packaging – this typically includes a certain number of large eggs and a neutral oil. Whisk all components together meticulously until a perfectly smooth and homogenous batter forms, free of any dry spots or lumps. This initial step, though simple, is absolutely crucial for establishing the ideal base for your incredible cherry limeade cupcakes. Once the batter is fully mixed, evenly divide it among the prepared muffin cups, taking care to fill each one approximately two-thirds full; this allows ample room for the cupcakes to properly rise and develop their signature dome during baking.

Step 2: Bake and Cool the Cupcakes. Carefully place the filled muffin tin into your preheated oven. Bake the cupcakes according to the precise instructions provided on your chosen cake mix box, which usually ranges from about 18 to 22 minutes. The cupcakes are perfectly done when a clean toothpick or cake tester inserted directly into the center of a cupcake comes out completely clean, with no wet batter clinging to it. Once baked to perfection, promptly remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool within the pan for an initial period of approximately 5-10 minutes. This brief resting period helps them set. Following this, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to ensure they cool completely and thoroughly. This crucial full cooling process is absolutely essential before you proceed to the next steps, as it prevents the lime jello from melting prematurely and ensures your luscious frosting adheres beautifully without sliding off.

Step 3: Prepare Cupcakes for Jello Infusion. Once your cupcakes have reached a completely cool state – feeling cool to the touch – it’s time to prepare them for their flavorful infusion. Using a clean fork, carefully and generously poke multiple holes all over the top surface of each individual cupcake. It’s important to ensure these perforations reach deep into the cake, ideally almost to the bottom, without excessively tearing or damaging the structural integrity of the cake. These numerous tiny holes will serve as efficient channels, allowing the vibrant and tangy lime jello mixture to seep deeply and thoroughly into the cake’s crumb. This vital step is what truly infuses the cupcakes with an incredible burst of extra moisture and that distinctive, refreshing tangy lime flavor, ensuring each and every bite is incredibly juicy, tender, and intensely flavorful.

Step 4: Dissolve the Lime Jello. In a small, clean saucepan, bring exactly one cup of water to a vigorous, rolling boil. As soon as the water reaches this boiling point, immediately remove the pan from the heat. Carefully and promptly stir in the entire contents of the lime jello mix into the hot water until every granule is completely dissolved. It’s crucial to stir vigorously and continuously to ensure that absolutely no undissolved jello remains, creating a perfectly smooth, vibrant green liquid. The goal here is a homogeneous mixture that is ready to be absorbed by your prepared cupcakes. Allow this vivid mixture to cool slightly – it should still be liquid but no longer scalding hot – before you apply it to the cupcakes, preventing premature setting or excessive steam.

Step 5: Infuse and Chill. With great care, spoon the slightly cooled (but still liquid) jello mixture over each individual poked cupcake, making every effort to achieve as even a distribution as possible across all of them. If you observe any liquid pooling excessively in one spot, you can use a clean pastry brush to gently spread it across the top surface, ensuring maximum absorption into the cake’s perforations. The cupcakes should appear thoroughly saturated but never soggy. Once all cupcakes have been generously infused, immediately place them into the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, or ideally longer, to allow the lime jello to fully set within the cake and the cupcakes to thoroughly chill throughout. This critical chilling step is paramount for achieving that characteristic moist, jello-infused texture and will also reliably prevent your delicate buttercream frosting from melting or becoming too soft upon application.

Step 6: Prepare the Cherry Frosting Base. While your cupcakes are diligently chilling in the refrigerator, it’s the perfect time to commence creating the decadent and luscious cherry frosting. In the clean bowl of a stand mixer, ideally fitted with the paddle attachment (though a reliable hand mixer will also work effectively), combine the perfectly softened unsalted butter with the meticulously sifted powdered sugar. Begin mixing on a very low speed to initially incorporate the ingredients and avoid creating a billowing cloud of sugar. Gradually increase the speed to medium-high. Beat the mixture vigorously until it transforms into a light, wonderfully fluffy, and exquisitely smooth consistency. If, at any point, the mixture appears excessively thick or crumbly, systematically add the heavy whipping cream, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat until it achieves a beautiful, creamy, and spreadable consistency. Exercise caution not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air, or add an excessive amount of liquid; the ultimate goal is a perfectly stable, yet easily pipeable, frosting.

Step 7: Flavor and Color the Frosting. Once your buttercream base has reached its perfectly creamy and smooth state, it’s time to infuse it with its signature cherry flavor and vibrant color. Begin by adding the cherry extract; start with the recommended amount specified in the recipe and thoroughly stir it in to ensure the flavor is fully and evenly incorporated throughout the entire batch. Next, with careful precision, add the red gel food coloring. It’s advisable to start with just a few drops and then gradually add more, meticulously mixing thoroughly after each addition, until you achieve your desired vibrant cherry red hue. Gel food coloring is particularly ideal for this step as it provides intense, rich color without significantly altering the frosting’s perfect consistency. Continue to stir everything until the color is completely uniform, appealingly bright, and perfectly consistent throughout the frosting.

Step 8: Check Frosting Consistency. Before you begin the exciting task of piping, it is absolutely vital to ensure that your cherry frosting possesses the correct consistency for both easy application and a beautiful, professional presentation. To perform a quick and reliable test, simply take a spoonful of the prepared frosting and carefully turn it upside down. If the frosting firmly holds its shape, remains perfectly intact, and stays securely on the spoon without sliding off, then it’s perfectly ready to use. However, if it appears too soft, runny, or begins to slide, you will likely need to incorporate more powdered sugar. Do this gradually, adding approximately ½ cup of sifted powdered sugar at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition, until the desired firm yet delightfully spreadable consistency is achieved. This crucial step guarantees that your piped frosting peaks will hold their form beautifully and maintain their stunning appearance.

Step 9: Retrieve Chilled Cupcakes. Once your flavorful cherry frosting is perfectly prepared and has been confirmed to be at the ideal consistency, and crucially, your cupcakes are thoroughly chilled with the jello completely set within them, carefully remove the cupcakes from the refrigerator. They should feel noticeably firm and pleasantly cool to the touch, providing a stable, resilient base for the rich buttercream. This cold surface is incredibly important as it helps the frosting adhere beautifully, maintains its intricate piped shape without melting or drooping, and ensures the ultimate structural integrity of your finished cupcake masterpieces.

Step 10: Frost and Garnish Your Masterpieces. It’s time for the grand finale! Carefully transfer your luscious cherry buttercream frosting into a sturdy piping bag. For elegant swirls and beautiful textures, we recommend using a large decorative tip, such as a star tip, which works beautifully for creating classic mounds. If you prefer convenience, disposable options like Wilton throw-away bags make cleanup incredibly easy. To frost each cupcake, begin piping on the outside edge of the cupcake, working your way inwards towards the center in a continuous, graceful swirling motion, creating a delightful, high mound of frosting. For an extra touch of stunning visual appeal and to perfectly complete the refreshing “cherry limeade” theme, lovingly garnish each cupcake with a small, thin slice of fresh lime and a glistening maraschino cherry. These garnishes are entirely optional but are highly recommended for achieving that coveted bakery-quality finish and delivering an irresistible burst of color and authentic flavor. Now, step back and admire your utterly irresistible creations!

Baking Pro Tips for Perfect Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

Achieving bakery-quality cherry limeade cupcakes that are consistently moist, bursting with flavor, and beautifully presented is far easier than you might initially think, especially when you have a few expert tips and tricks in your baking arsenal. These invaluable pointers will help ensure your cupcakes are nothing short of perfect every single time you bake them.

• Never Skip the Chill Step: This particular step is not just recommended; it is absolutely crucial for the success of these unique cupcakes! After generously pouring the lime jello mixture over your baked cupcakes, it is imperative to refrigerate them for a minimum of 30 minutes, or even longer, ideally while you prepare your rich buttercream frosting. Allowing the jello to fully set and the cupcakes to become thoroughly cool throughout is essential. This ensures that the cake fully absorbs all the delightful jello goodness, resulting in an incredibly moist, almost juicy texture. Moreover, this chilling process effectively prevents your delicate buttercream frosting from melting, becoming runny, or sliding off the warm cake, which can ruin your beautiful piping work.
• Customize Your Cake Base: While a classic white cake mix provides a beautifully clean and neutral canvas that perfectly allows the vibrant lime flavor to dominate, you are absolutely encouraged to experiment with other cake mix flavors. A lemon cake mix, for instance, could wonderfully amplify the existing citrus notes, creating an even more zesty profile. Alternatively, a simple vanilla cake mix would also work delightfully, offering a subtle base. The inherent beauty of utilizing a convenient box mix lies in its consistent reliability and unparalleled ease of preparation, regardless of whether you opt for the efficiency of a stand mixer for hands-free convenience or prefer the more tactile and traditional approach of mixing the ingredients by hand.
• Clever Piping Bag Alternatives: Find yourself without traditional piping bags? Absolutely no problem! You can effortlessly achieve a surprisingly professional-looking swirl and beautiful frosting application using a common kitchen item: a standard Ziplock bag. Simply spoon your perfectly prepared frosting into a large Ziplock bag, gently push all the frosting down towards one corner, then carefully snip off a small piece of that corner with a pair of sharp kitchen scissors. And just like that – you have an instant, perfectly functional, and wonderfully mess-free piping bag ready for action!
• Efficient Scooping with a Cookie Scoop: For baking perfectly uniform cupcakes and to save valuable time and effort during the messy process of batter division, a cookie scoop will quickly become your absolute best friend in the kitchen. Using scoops of the exact same size ensures that each and every cupcake bakes evenly, consistently, and looks visually appealing, creating a professional-looking batch where all cupcakes are uniform in size and shape. Investing in a high-quality set of stainless steel cookie scoops will undoubtedly make your entire baking process significantly smoother, more efficient, and much more enjoyable.
• Cupcake Liners for Effortless Cleanup: We highly recommend always using good quality cupcake paper liners in your muffin pan. Not only do they make cleanup incredibly quick and easy by preventing any sticking, but they also contribute a charming, decorative touch to your finished cupcakes, enhancing their visual appeal. Should you ever find yourself unexpectedly without cupcake liners, ensure you generously spray each individual well of the muffin pan with cooking spray or thoroughly grease and flour them to prevent any sticking whatsoever and guarantee easy, intact removal of your perfectly baked treats.
• Prioritize Quality Ingredients: While convenience is often a key factor in baking, remember that using good quality ingredients, particularly for your butter (ensuring it’s fresh and unsalted) and your flavor extracts, can make a surprisingly noticeable and significant difference in the final taste, aroma, and overall quality of your frosting and the entire cupcake.

By thoughtfully incorporating these simple yet highly effective tips and tricks into your baking routine, you’ll be well on your way to consistently baking beautiful, wonderfully moist, and utterly delicious Cherry Limeade Cupcakes that everyone, without exception, will rave about and remember!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

Got questions about successfully making, storing, or perfecting your delightful Cherry Limeade Cupcakes? Don’t worry, we’ve got comprehensive answers to some of the most common queries and concerns to help you bake with complete confidence and achieve the best results every single time.

How do you keep cupcakes moist and fluffy?

The ultimate key to keeping your Cherry Limeade Cupcakes wonderfully moist, incredibly tender, and delightfully fluffy for an extended period lies in meticulous and proper storage. After they have been fully baked and allowed to cool completely to room temperature, it is crucial to place them promptly into an airtight container. This essential step effectively prevents any air from prematurely drying out the delicate cake and keeps the luscious frosting fresh and perfectly intact. You have the flexibility to store them at room temperature for a couple of days in cooler environments, or for significantly extended freshness, it is highly advisable to place them in the refrigerator, especially if your kitchen tends to be warm or if your frosting contains dairy components that require chilling.

How to store Cherry Limeade Cupcakes?

To precisely maintain their fresh taste, appealing texture, and vibrant appearance, meticulously store any leftover frosted Cherry Limeade Cupcakes in a completely airtight container. When stored correctly, they will remain absolutely delicious and fresh at comfortable room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you anticipate needing to keep them for a longer duration, or if your specific frosting recipe includes ingredients like cream cheese or other dairy products that necessitate refrigeration, you can confidently refrigerate the leftovers for up to 1 full week. Always ensure they are covered very tightly within the container to rigorously prevent them from absorbing any undesirable odors from other foods in the refrigerator, which could compromise their flavor.

How to freeze Cherry Limeade Cupcakes?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze frosted Cherry Limeade Cupcakes with excellent results! This is an incredibly convenient and fantastic option for proficiently making them well ahead of time for future events or for simply enjoying them periodically over a much longer period. To properly freeze them, first meticulously arrange the frosted cupcakes (without any extra garnishes like lime slices or cherries) on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for approximately 1-2 hours, or until the frosting becomes completely firm and solid. After they are firm, carefully transfer the frozen cupcakes to a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring they are impeccably protected from any potential freezer burn. When stored correctly, they will confidently last about 3 months in the freezer without any significant loss of quality, flavor, or texture. When you’re ready to serve these delightful treats, simply thaw the cupcakes overnight in the refrigerator, then allow them to come to a comfortable room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding fresh garnishes and enjoying their refreshed deliciousness.

Can I make Cherry Limeade Cupcakes ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! These Cherry Limeade Cupcakes are an excellent and highly recommended choice for making in advance, especially when preparing for a party or special event. You can efficiently bake the lime-infused cupcakes a full day or even two days before your event and store them securely in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best to prepare the jello mixture and infuse them on the day of baking, ensuring they receive sufficient chilling time to set properly. The cherry frosting can also be expertly made a day ahead and stored safely in the refrigerator; just remember to let it come to room temperature and give it a slight re-whip with your mixer before you begin the piping process. The final steps of frosting and adding delicate garnishes can then be conveniently completed closer to your desired serving time, ensuring maximum freshness and presentation.

What if my frosting is too runny or too stiff?

Achieving the truly perfect frosting consistency can sometimes be a nuanced process that requires a little careful adjustment. If you find your cherry frosting is inadvertently too runny, gradually and systematically add more sifted powdered sugar, a quarter cup at a time, meticulously beating well after each addition until it thickens to your desired firmness. Conversely, if the frosting appears too stiff or difficult to pipe, add a tiny splash (approximately half a teaspoon) of heavy whipping cream or milk, mixing until it expertly loosens to your desired smooth, spreadable, and pipeable consistency. Always remember this golden rule: it is considerably easier to add small, controlled amounts of ingredients than it is to correct an over-addition, so proceed with patience and precision.

Discover More Irresistible Cupcake Recipes

If you’ve found yourself utterly captivated and fallen in love with these delightful Cherry Limeade Cupcakes, then you’re truly in for an extraordinary treat! Our extensive and curated collection of cupcake recipes offers a wonderful variety of flavors, unique styles, and creative designs to meticulously satisfy every single craving and occasion. Explore these other equally delightful options for your very next exciting baking adventure, and prepare to be amazed by the versatility of these mini cakes:

• Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes: A perfectly balanced blend of sweet, ripe strawberries and tangy, refreshing lemonade, making them an ideal and zesty choice for any joyful spring or summer gathering.
• Confetti Cupcakes: These classic, undeniably fun, and joyously sprinkled cupcakes are the quintessential choice, perfect for absolutely any celebration, big or small, bringing smiles to all ages.
• Thin Mint Cupcakes: Prepare to deeply indulge in the remarkably refreshing mint and rich chocolate flavors, expertly inspired by your all-time favorite cookie, delivering a sophisticated and cool treat.
• Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes: Experience a delightful, nostalgic taste of summer with these vibrant cupcakes, featuring a wonderfully creamy orange frosting that evokes cherished childhood memories.
• Rainbow Cupcakes: Incredibly bright, bursting with vibrant colors, and exceptionally fun to both make and decorate, these cheerful cupcakes are absolutely guaranteed to delight and impress everyone, especially children.

Ready to bake an unforgettable batch of these incredible Cherry Limeade Cupcakes? We guarantee, with utmost confidence, that they’ll be an enormous hit at your next event or simply as a special treat for your loved ones! Don’t forget to generously leave a star rating and a comment below to share your wonderful experience, insightful tips, and any creative variations with other enthusiastic bakers in our community. Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet, tangy bite!

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Cherry Limeade Cupcakes

4.72 from 7 votes

Turn your favorite summertime drink into dessert with these Cherry Limeade Cupcakes. Moist lime-flavored cake and decadent icing piled high make this treat irresistible.

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Cool 15 mins

Total Time 45 mins

Servings 24

Cuisine American

Course Dessert

Calories 184

Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

• Cupcakes:
• 1 box white cake mix plus ingredients needed based on the box instructions
• 1 3 oz box lime jello mix
• 1 cup water
• Frosting:
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp heavy whipping cream
• 1 tsp cherry extract
• red gel food coloring

Instructions

1. Bake the cupcakes based on the box instructions.
2. Allow the cupcakes to cool for 10-15 minutes.
3. Poke the cupcakes with a fork multiple times ensuring that you go to the bottom of the cupcakes.
4. Boil the 1 cup of water in a separate pan.
5. Dissolve the jello mix in the boiling water.
6. Spoon the jello mixture over the cupcakes evenly.
7. Refrigerate the cupcakes until the jello is set.
8. Now for the Cherry Frosting Directions:
9. Cream the butter and powder sugar until it looks light and creamy. If it doesn’t cream add several drops of the heavy whipping cream until it creams.
10. Add the cherry extract. Stir to mix well. Add red gel food coloring. Stir to mix well. Test to see if the frosting can form and hold a stiff peak by taking a spoonful of frosting and turning the spoon upside down. If the frosting stays on the spoon it is ready if not then…. Add more powder sugar ½ C at a time…. mix well.
11. If ready scoop the frosting into a pastry bag with a large tip.
12. Twist the open end of the pastry bag to push the frosting to the tip.
13. Start the frosting on the outside edge of the cupcake working to the center of the cupcake.
14. Place a small wedge of fresh lime on the center of the cupcake.

Recipe Notes

Store the leftover frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 184kcal, Carbohydrates 22g, Protein 2g, Fat 11g, Saturated Fat 6g, Trans Fat 1g, Cholesterol 21mg, Sodium 172mg, Potassium 63mg, Fiber 1g, Sugar 16g, Vitamin A 246IU, Vitamin C 1mg, Calcium 30mg, Iron 1mg