Grandma'S Orange Cupcakes

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Juicy orange-flavored mini cupcakes with a tender crumb, perfect for citrus lovers and special occasions, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and zesty brightness.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 orange peel
  • 2 eggs
  • 2/3 cup honey
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2/3 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Spoon the batter into a mini cupcake pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. If you don't have honey, maple syrup can be a great substitute. Don't forget to zest the orange peel finely to maximize the citrus flavor. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. For a different twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter, which can also be found in other American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These orange cupcakes are delightful on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a light orange glaze for added sweetness. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee and would make an excellent dessert for a brunch. Consider serving them alongside W. V. Banana Muffins for a delicious spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until just warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Orange Cupcakes contains roughly 344 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

344 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.7g 9% DV
Total Fat 17g 22% DV
Carbs 45.3g 16% DV
Fiber 4.7g 17% DV
Sugar 1.8g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 202mg 9% DV
Potassium 284.2mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 41.6mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31.1mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 19.7mg 22% DV
Calcium 101.1mg 8% DV
Iron 1.8mg 10% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. However, this may change the texture slightly, making the cupcakes denser. You can also try gluten-free flour blends if you're avoiding gluten.

What can I do if I don't have fresh orange juice?

If fresh orange juice isn't available, you can use bottled orange juice. Just ensure it's 100% juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor. Alternatively, a mix of water and orange extract can also work in a pinch.

How can I make these cupcakes more festive?

To add a festive touch, consider frosting them with a cream cheese icing or decorating with candied orange peel on top. Sprinkling some colorful edible glitter or serving them in decorative cupcake liners can also enhance their visual appeal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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