Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cupcakes are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients. The soda serves as the leavening agent, making these cupcakes fluffy and moist with a light, refreshing citrus flavor. The addition of cream cheese frosting adds the perfect creamy, tangy balance to the sweet citrusy cake. It’s a fun and delicious twist on classic cupcakes!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or Jarritos)
- 2 large egg whites
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 package lime gelatin mix (optional for extra flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime gelatin mix (optional for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons half-and-half
- Green food coloring (optional)
- Green sprinkles (optional for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Cupcakes:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, lemon-lime soda, egg whites, vegetable oil, and lime gelatin (if using). Mix until smooth.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely. - Make the Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, lime gelatin, and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Add half-and-half until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
If desired, add green food coloring to achieve a fun, vibrant green shade. - Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Garnish with green sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 cupcakes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Different Sodas: You can use other citrus sodas like orange soda or grapefruit soda to create unique flavors.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cake mix, dairy-free butter, and vegan cream cheese to make these cupcakes fully vegan.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These cupcakes freeze well! Freeze them without frosting for up to 1 month. Let them thaw before frosting and serving.
FAQs
Can I make these cupcakes without gelatin?
Yes, the gelatin adds extra flavor, but it’s optional. The cupcakes will still be delicious without it.
Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese frosting?
Yes, you can use vanilla buttercream or any frosting of your choice.
How do I prevent the cupcakes from getting too dry?
Be careful not to overbake the cupcakes. Check them a few minutes before the suggested baking time to ensure they’re perfectly moist.
Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Yes, you can substitute whole eggs for egg whites. It will change the texture slightly, but the flavor will remain the same.
How can I make these cupcakes more flavorful?
Consider adding zest from the lemon or lime to the batter for a more intense citrus flavor.
Conclusion
These lemon lime soda cupcakes are an easy, fun, and refreshing dessert perfect for any occasion. With their light texture, citrus flavor, and creamy frosting, they’re sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering!
Print
Lemon Lime Soda Cupcakes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These easy Lemon Lime Soda Cupcakes are a refreshing and light treat, made with just a box of cake mix and citrus soda. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are the perfect dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 box white cake mix
1 cup lemon-lime soda (such as Sprite or Jarritos)
2 large egg whites
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 package lime gelatin mix (optional for extra flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
2–3 cups powdered sugar, to taste
1 tablespoon lime gelatin mix (optional for flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons half-and-half
Green food coloring (optional)
Green sprinkles (optional for garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cupcakes:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, lemon-lime soda, egg whites, vegetable oil, and lime gelatin (if using). Mix until smooth.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely. -
Make the Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar, lime gelatin, and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Add half-and-half until you reach your desired frosting consistency.
If desired, add green food coloring to achieve a fun, vibrant green shade. -
Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Garnish with green sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.
Notes
Different Sodas: You can try other citrus sodas like orange soda or grapefruit soda to create unique flavors.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cake mix, dairy-free butter, and vegan cream cheese to make these cupcakes vegan-friendly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
