Imagine waking up to the sun pouring in through the kitchen window, the tantalizing scent of citrus filling the air, and a celebratory sparkle in your glass. That’s the essence behind these delightful Mimosa Cupcakes! Inspired by the popular brunch cocktail, they merge the soft, sweet texture of cake with zesty orange and bubbly Champagne.
I crafted this recipe for those moments when you’re ready to elevate your weekend brunch, leaving behind the mundane fast food routine. These cupcakes promise to impress your friends, whether it’s a peaceful Sunday morning or lively gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a fabulous dessert that not only tastes refreshing but looks charming on any table. Let’s bring a little more sparkle and sweetness into our lives with these luscious, citrus-infused treats!
Why are Mimosa Cupcakes the perfect treat?
Festive Flair: Mimosa Cupcakes transform your brunch into a sparkling celebration, perfect for any occasion.
Citrusy Delight: The combination of Champagne and orange zest offers a bright, refreshing flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
Easy to Make: Using boxed vanilla cake mix, these cupcakes are a breeze to whip up for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Crowd-Pleasing: Their charming appearance and deliciously fluffy texture ensure that they’ll be the star of the dessert table.
Versatile Option: Swap Champagne for sparkling cider for a delightful non-alcoholic treat, making them suitable for everyone!
Indulge in these cupcakes for a seriously fun and festive addition to your brunch spread. Enjoy them fresh with coffee or your favorite cocktails!
Mimosa Cupcakes Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
• Vanilla Cake Mix – The base for sweetness and structure; choose your favorite brand for the best results.
• Champagne (1 1/4 cups, divided) – Provides celebratory flavor and moisture; any dry or semi-dry Champagne works beautifully.
• Vegetable Oil (1/3 cup) – Ensures a moist, tender cake; for a slight twist, substitute with melted coconut oil.
• Large Eggs (3) – Adds richness and structure; remember that room temperature eggs yield a better rise.
• Orange Zest (2 tsp, divided) – Imparts fresh, zesty flavor; using fresh zest will maximize that bright essence.
For the Frosting
• Butter (1 cup, softened) – Creates a rich texture for the frosting; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Powdered Sugar (4 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust the amount to taste for less sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the frosting’s flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for a more robust taste.
• Kosher Salt (Pinch) – Balances the flavors; avoid fine salt which can lead to over-seasoning.
• Orange Zest (remaining) – Adds an extra pop of citrus to the frosting; always fresh is best for vibrant flavor.
For Decoration
• Gold Sanding Sugar – An optional decorative topping that adds a festive touch to your cupcakes.
• Orange Wedges – For garnish; fresh orange slices not only look appealing but enhance the overall presentation.
Get ready to delight your guests with these Mimosa Cupcakes that bring joy and fresh flavors to your brunch!
How to Make Mimosa Cupcakes
Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This sets the stage for your delightful cupcakes!
Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, 1 cup of Champagne, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of orange zest. Mix until the batter is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, the remaining 1/4 cup of Champagne, vanilla extract, a pinch of kosher salt, and the remaining orange zest. Beat until the frosting is fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Frost Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a knife to frost each cupcake with the creamy frosting. Sprinkle with gold sanding sugar for extra sparkle and garnish with orange wedges.
Optional: Drizzle a little extra Champagne over frosted cupcakes for a special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mimosa Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Store un-frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain moist and fresh.
Fridge: If you have leftover frosted cupcakes, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-frosted cupcakes in a tightly sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Frost them after thawing for perfect treat freshness.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cupcakes, gently reheat frosted ones in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat. Enjoy these delightful Mimosa Cupcakes as a special treat!
What to Serve with Mimosa Cupcakes?
Imagine the perfect brunch spread, where the delightful sweetness of a cupcake meets refreshing complements that enhance your festive experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the cupcakes’ sweetness, enhancing the citrus notes beautifully.
- Creamy Buttercream Frosting: An additional layer of frosting offers velvety sweetness which harmonizes with the light, airy texture of the cupcakes.
- Sparkling Wine: Pair with a sweet or dry sparkling wine to amplify the celebratory feel of the occasion; it’s a classic mimosa companion!
- Crispy Bacon: The smoky saltiness of crispy bacon creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes, enriching each bite.
- Quiche: A slice of creamy quiche brings a savory touch that balances the cupcakes’ sweetness, making your meal well-rounded.
- Coffee or Espresso: Bold coffee or espresso pairs excellently with these cupcakes, enhancing flavors while providing a comforting warmth.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream will melt into the cupcakes, adding indulgence and lusciousness to every bite.
Mimosa Cupcake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cupcakes to fit your taste and dietary preferences!
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter and use a non-dairy milk instead of Champagne for the frosting. You can still enjoy the same fluffy texture!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make these cupcakes celiac-friendly. Ensure other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.
Citrus Boost: Add lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest for a vibrant, zesty twist that makes every bite even more refreshing.
Decadent Chocolate: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter for a rich chocolate version of your Mimosa Cupcakes—delightful and unique!
Spritz Infusion: Replace some of the Champagne with flavored sparkling water to introduce subtle notes without compromising the lightness.
Fruit Toppings: Top the frosted cupcakes with fresh berries or candied citrus slices for added color and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cupcakes.
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute for the powdered sugar in the frosting, and opt for a sugar-free cake mix for a low-calorie treat without sacrificing taste.
Spicy Orange: Incorporate a hint of cayenne pepper in your frosting for a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
Enjoy these variations to create the ultimate personalized Mimosa Cupcakes that spark joy at any brunch gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Mimosa Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy brunch days! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance by covering it tightly and refrigerating it. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled batter into lined cupcake tins and bake as directed. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just remember to bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on your cupcakes for easy application. By prepping these components in advance, you’ll enjoy a delicious brunch treat with minimal effort on the special day!
Expert Tips for Mimosa Cupcakes
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth and creamy frosting that spreads easily.
- Avoid Over-Mixing: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to dense cakes.
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for better rise and texture in your cupcakes—set them out for 30 minutes before baking.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust the powdered sugar gradually to achieve your desired frosting thickness; a thicker frosting is easier to pipe.
- Champagne Storage: Store unopened Champagne in a cool, dark place and use leftover bubbly to create refreshing mimosas or for cooking.
- Garnish Wisely: Choose fresh orange wedges for garnish; they add visual appeal and enhance the citrus flavor of your Mimosa Cupcakes.
Mimosa Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
How should I select the Champagne for my Mimosa Cupcakes?
Absolutely! You want to use a dry or semi-dry Champagne for the best flavor. Look for one labeled as “Brut” or “Extra Dry,” as they complement the sweetness of the cake and balance the citrus perfectly. Selecting a quality Champagne can elevate your cupcakes to a new level of deliciousness!
How should I store my Mimosa Cupcakes?
If your Mimosa Cupcakes are un-frosted, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If already frosted, they can be refrigerated for about 5 days, but be sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze my Mimosa Cupcakes?
Certainly! To freeze your un-frosted cupcakes, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to frost them after thawing to maintain that fresh, fluffy texture!
What can I do if the cupcakes overflow while baking?
No worries! Cupcake batter can be a little tricky, but if you notice overflow, simply place your muffin tin on a baking sheet. This way, any batter that bubbles over will stay contained, and your cupcakes will still come out delightful. For a future bake, try filling the liners just about two-thirds full.
Can pets eat Mimosa Cupcakes?
It’s best to keep these cupcakes away from pets. Ingredients like chocolate and certain sweeteners could be harmful to them, and while orange zest is generally safe, the sugar and Champagne are not advisable. Always enjoy homemade treats yourself and share pet-friendly snacks with your furry friends!
Are there any substitutions to consider for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily swap the Champagne for a non-alcoholic sparkling cider if you want to keep it family-friendly. Additionally, if you have allergies, consider using gluten-free cake mix and egg replacers to accommodate your guests. These adjustments will ensure everyone can indulge in the fun of Mimosa Cupcakes!
Mimosa Cupcakes: Celebrate Brunch with a Citrus Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, 1 cup of Champagne, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of orange zest. Mix until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the batter into cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Once baked, let cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, remaining 1/4 cup of Champagne, vanilla, pinch of salt, and remaining orange zest. Beat until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Frost cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or knife. Sprinkle with gold sanding sugar and garnish with orange wedges.
- Optional: Drizzle extra Champagne over frosted cupcakes for a special touch!