Strawberry Limeade Cupcake Spark

Name: Strawberry Limeade Cupcake Spark
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed; Zest of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice; Zest of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon milk, if needed for consistency

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I love baking, especially when it involves fresh fruit and bright flavors. These Strawberry Limeade Cupcakes are a delightful mix of sweet and tart, and they remind me of sunny summer days spent outdoors. When I first made them, I was amazed at how the lime zest pairs perfectly with strawberries, creating a refreshing burst of flavor. The limeade adds a unique twist that makes each bite truly special. I can’t wait for you to try these; they’ll brighten up any occasion with their vibrant taste and beautiful appearance.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:50:27.954Z

When I first envisioned making these cupcakes, I wanted to capture the essence of a classic summer drink. The combination of strawberry and lime is not only refreshing but also nostalgic for me. I experimented with lime zest and fresh strawberries, and the result was just perfect. The cupcakes have a light, fluffy texture that holds up beautifully to the citrusy frosting.

One key tip I discovered is to use freshly squeezed lime juice – it makes all the difference in achieving an authentic flavor. The cupcakes are finished off with a zesty limeade glaze which enhances their overall appeal and elevates the dessert experience. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I did!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A refreshing blend of strawberry and lime that invigorates your taste buds
Perfectly light and fluffy texture with a tangy frosting
An eye-catching treat that’s ideal for summer gatherings

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh strawberries is crucial in these cupcakes, as their flavor and moisture content directly influence the final product. When pureeing your strawberries, choose ripe ones for the sweetest taste. You can also try experimenting with different berry varieties like raspberries or blackberries for a unique flavor, but remember to adjust the sugar levels accordingly since some berries can be more tart than strawberries.

The zest of the lime plays a significant role in balancing the sweetness of the cupcakes. It adds a vibrant, aromatic quality that elevates the overall flavor profile. For the best results, zest the lime just before use to capture the oils. An easy technique is to use a microplane; it finely grates the zest without extracting the bitter pith underneath.

Perfecting the Cupcake Texture

Achieving a light and fluffy cupcake relies on proper cream incorporation of butter and sugar. Ensure your butter is at room temperature—this helps to integrate air into the mix effectively. When creaming, beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients to maintain that airy texture—mix just until you see no dry flour streaks.

The baking time is critical as well. Start checking for doneness at 18 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can lead to dry cupcakes, while underbaking leaves them gooey in the center—achieving the perfect bake will create a delightful eating experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up some delightful Strawberry Limeade Cupcakes!

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
Zest of 1 lime
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

For the Limeade Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
Zest of 1 lime
1 tablespoon milk, if needed for consistency

Now that you have all your ingredients sorted, it's time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create delicious Strawberry Limeade Cupcakes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the milk, lime juice, and zest, followed by the pureed strawberries.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.

Bake

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.

Prepare Frosting

To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lime juice, and zest, mixing until smooth. If needed, add a little milk to reach the desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, generously frost each with the limeade frosting. Optional: garnish with additional lime zest or a small strawberry slice.

Enjoy your freshly baked Strawberry Limeade Cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of limeade into the batter for added tang.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Limeade Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, but for longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate them. Just remember that cold storage may affect the texture slightly. For even longer preservation, you can freeze the un-frosted cupcakes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

If you plan to make these cupcakes ahead of time, consider preparing the frosting separately. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before frosting the cupcakes to restore its creamy consistency.

Variations and Serving Ideas

For a twist on the standard cupcake, consider incorporating some lime zest into the actual cupcake batter. This will deepen the lime flavor in each bite. Alternatively, you could integrate a fresh basil or mint leaf for an herbal undertone that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries and lime.

These cupcakes are perfect for summer gatherings, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Garnishing with a mint sprig or a slice of lime can add a festive touch, making them not just delicious but visually stunning as well.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I store these cupcakes?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What's the best way to frost the cupcakes?

A piping bag with a star tip gives a beautiful swirl, but a simple spatula works just as well!