Mini Gluten Free Key Lime Cupcakes

For a cool and creamy sweet treat- plan to bring these mini gluten free key lime cupcakes to all of your summer barbecues!

Some members of my family believe that if a dish uses fruit, then it cannot be considered a dessert. I, on the other hand, happily disagree!

Citrus flavors in the summer are an absolute must! They provide a ton of flavor! Plus, they can be used for savory or sweet dishes.

Now, I LOVE lime! Like, it’s a problem…

I’ve used it on salmon, in baked oatmeal, and even inside a pina colada. I really can’t get enough!

For me, a mini lime treat really hits the sweet spot! These mini cupcakes are cute and perfect for summer!

Gluten Free Mini Key Lime Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients in Mini Gluten Free Key Lime Cupcakes

  • Key Limes
  • Butter
  • Brown Sugar
  • Vanilla
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vinegar
  • Baking Soda
  • Baking Powder
  • Salt
  • Gluten Free Flour Blend

What are key limes?

Grown in Florida and California, key limes are small with a light yellow color. They are known for being tart and fragrant. Their skin is much thinner, making them last for only a few days. Most notably, they are used for key lime pies. These little babies only produce about 2-3 tsp. of juice.

Do I need to use key limes?

Of course not! They tend to be the best; however, I cannot always find them at my local grocery store. Also, they produce much less juice than other limes.

Mini Key Lime Cupcakes with Key Lime Frosting

More About Limes

  • Fresh lime juice is best
  • Add zest to your baked goods- so much more flavor!
  • "Regular" limes are darker green with thicker skin
  • Keep for up to a month in the fridge
  • Each contains 2-3 Tbsp. of juice

 

Backyard BBQ Tip: If they will be sitting outside on a warm, summer day- freeze ahead of time. This will help to keep the cream cheese and butter from getting too warm. You could also replace the butter with shortening- this will help to stabilize the frosting.

Mini Gluten Free Key Lime Cupcakes

For a cool and creamy sweet treat- plan to bring these mini gluten free key lime cupcakes to all of your summer barbecues!

Prep:
10
min
cook:
12
min
total:
40
min
Author:

Ingredients
  • 6 Tbsp. butter, melted
  • 1/2 c. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • 3/4 c. milk (can use dairy free)
  • Zest of 1/2 lime
  • 1 Tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 tsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 1 1/4 c. gluten free flour blend (I used almond flour and the Target GF blend)

Key Lime Frosting

  • 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • 4 Tbsp. butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 Tbsp. lime juice
  • 1 1/4 c. powdered sugar
Instructions
  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the butter, brown sugar, vanilla, eggs, and milk. Next, whisk in the lime zest, lime juice, vinegar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour.
  • Spoon 1 Tbsp. of batter into lined mini muffin cups. Bake for 11-13 minutes, until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
  • Meanwhile, beat the cream cheese and butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Then, beat in the vanilla, lime juice, and powdered sugar. Cover and place in the freezer until ready to use. This will allow the butter and cream cheese to begin to set.
  • Allow the mini cupcakes to cool. Next, use a knife or icing bag with a tip to frost. Garnish with lime zest. Store in the fridge.

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