Introduction

These Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes capture the nostalgic flavor of the classic frozen treat in a moist, fluffy cupcake. With a hint of orange soda and a creamy, tinted frosting, they’re a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.

Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

15.25 ounces white cake mix
12 ounces orange soda (or your favorite brand)
1 teaspoon orange flavor (optional)
42 ounces white whipped frosting
3 to 5 drops orange gel food color

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two regular-size muffin pans with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Add the cake mix to a medium mixing bowl.
Step 3: Pour the orange soda over the cake mix.
Step 4: Add the orange flavor or extract if using.
Step 5: Using a handheld mixer on low speed, mix for about one minute until completely incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 6: Fill the prepared muffin pans about two-thirds full. Bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely.
Step 7: Place the white whipped frosting in a small mixing bowl. Add 3 to 5 drops of orange gel food coloring and stir until the color is evenly blended.
Step 8: Transfer the tinted frosting to a decorator’s bag fitted with a large round tip or use a gallon-size Ziploc bag with a small corner snipped off.
Step 9: Hold the bag half an inch above the center of each cupcake. Apply even pressure and pipe a gentle circle to cover the cupcake surface. Repeat for all cupcakes.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger orange flavor, increase the orange extract slightly or use fresh orange zest in the batter.
Try swapping the orange soda for a lemon-lime soda for a twist on the classic flavor.
If you don’t have gel food coloring, liquid food coloring works, but gel provides a more vibrant color with less liquid.
Make these cupcakes ahead and store the frosting separately to keep the topping fresh before serving.

Storage

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but allow to come to room temperature before serving. If refrigerated, the frosting may need a gentle stir or re-piping. You can also freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months; thaw completely before frosting.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other kinds of soda instead of orange soda?

Yes, you can use lemon-lime soda or another citrus-flavored soda if you want to experiment with different flavors. Just keep in mind it will change the final taste.

Is the orange flavoring necessary?

The orange flavoring is optional but recommended to enhance the orange taste since some sodas have a mild flavor. It helps give the cupcakes a more distinct creamsicle profile.

Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.5 from 90 reviews

These Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes are a delightful twist on classic cupcakes, combining the refreshing citrus flavor of orange soda with a smooth, creamy white frosting tinted to look like a creamsicle. Perfect for summer parties or anytime you want a bright, flavorful treat with a nostalgic touch.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cupcakes 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

15.25 ounces white cake mix
12 ounces orange soda (your favorite brand)
1 teaspoon orange flavor (optional)

Frosting

42 ounces white whipped frosting
3 to 5 drops orange gel food color

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two regular-size muffin pans with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Cake Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the white cake mix. Pour the orange soda over the mix, then add the optional teaspoon of orange flavoring if desired. Use a handheld mixer on low speed and mix for about one minute until fully combined, making sure not to overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the lined muffin pans, filling each liner approximately two-thirds full to allow room for the cupcakes to rise.
Bake Cupcakes: Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Tint Frosting: In a small mixing bowl, add the white whipped frosting and 3 to 5 drops of orange gel food coloring. Stir thoroughly until the frosting color is uniform and a soft orange cream color is achieved.
Prepare for Piping: Transfer the tinted frosting to a decorator’s bag fitted with a Wilson 2A large round tip, or use a gallon-size Ziploc bag with a small corner snipped off for easy piping control.
Frost Cupcakes: Hold the piping bag about ½ inch above the center of each cupcake. Squeeze the bag gently using even pressure, piping the frosting in a circular motion to cover the tops completely. Repeat this process for all cupcakes to create a smooth, creamy finish reminiscent of creamsicles.

Notes

Using orange soda in the batter adds moisture and enhances the orange flavor perfectly without extra liquids.
If you prefer a stronger orange taste, add the optional orange flavor extract.
Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
Adjust the number of gel food coloring drops to your preferred frosting shade.
These cupcakes are best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Keywords: Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes, orange soda cupcakes, creamy orange frosting, summer cupcakes, citrus cupcakes, nostalgic desserts