Margarita Cupcakes Tequila Frosting (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Cupcakes

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 2 limes)
08 - 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
09 - 2 tablespoons tequila
10 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 1/2 cup buttermilk

→ For the Tequila Lime Frosting

12 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
13 - 3 cups powdered sugar
14 - 2 tablespoons tequila
15 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
16 - 1 teaspoon lime zest
17 - Pinch of salt

→ For Garnish (Optional)

18 - Lime wedges or zest
19 - Coarse sea salt or sugar (for rimming)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
02 - In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
03 - In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
04 - Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in lime zest, lime juice, tequila, and vanilla extract.
05 - Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
06 - Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
07 - In a bowl, beat butter until creamy.
08 - Gradually mix in powdered sugar, tequila, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt, beating until fluffy.
09 - Pipe or spread frosting over cooled cupcakes.
10 - Lightly sprinkle the edges of the cupcakes with coarse salt or sugar for a classic margarita look. Garnish with lime wedges or extra zest.

# Notes:

01 - For an extra boozy kick, brush the tops of the warm cupcakes with a little tequila before frosting.
02 - Omit tequila and replace it with more lime juice or milk for a kid-friendly version.
03 - Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.