Margarita Cupcakes

After making homemade margarita mix, I became obsessed on the many different ways I could use it. These margarita cupcakes are easy to make, since they start with a mix. But, best of all, they can be taken to parties and work, since there is no alcohol in the frosting. Some recipes I found used alcohol in the frosting, which would make it very difficult to take these to a family function or to the office. Feel free to substitute tequila and some triple sec instead of the lime juice for the frosting, if you would prefer a full adult version!

Step 1:

In a small bowl combine margarita mix, tequila and triple sec. The recipe will only use 1 1/4 cups of this mixture and this makes a little bit more than that. Go ahead and pour the left over amount into a glass and enjoy a margarita while you cook!

My treat while cooking.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, add the cake mix, egg whites, oil, lime zest and 1 1/4 cups of your margarita from Step 1. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds and then turn it up to high for about 2 minutes.

Step 3:

Fill lined cupcake tins about 3/4 full. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4:

Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes before moving to a rack to cool completely.

Step 5:

To make the frosting, cream butter until fluffy. Add sugar, salt, lime juice and lime zest. Beat until mixture has a spreadable consistency. If too thick, add a little more lime juice. If too runny, add more powdered sugar.