There’s something magical about biting into a spiced clementine cupcake, where the bright zest of citrus meets the warm embrace of spices. Imagine fluffy cake, infused with the essence of clementines, and finished off with a swirl of creamy frosting. Your taste buds will be dancing like nobody’s watching.
I first discovered these delightful cupcakes at a friend’s holiday gathering, where they practically stole the show. As I savored each bite, I felt an immediate connection to cozy family gatherings and festive cheer. Spiced German Cookies Perfect for any occasion from birthdays to brunches, these spiced clementine cupcakes promise an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Hummingbird Cake recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These spiced clementine cupcakes are a breeze to make, bringing excitement to your baking routine.
- The flavor profile balances sweet and spicy, offering a delightful twist on traditional cupcakes.
- Their vibrant orange color is sure to brighten up any dessert table.
- Versatile enough for any celebration or casual snack, they fit right in at any event!
Ingredients for Spiced Clementine Cupcakes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your cupcakes; sift it for a lighter texture.
- Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; feel free to add more if you love that cinnamon kick.
- Ground Ginger: This spice brings a zesty flair; use freshly ground for optimal flavor.
- Clementines: Fresh juice and zest are key; choose plump ones bursting with flavor.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works well, but you can use brown sugar for extra moisture.
- Eggs: They bind everything together; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; melt it slightly before mixing it in.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spiced Clementine Cupcakes
For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake recipe.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a cupcake tin with paper liners so they don’t stick around like an unwelcome guest at a party.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and ground ginger until well combined. Feel free to channel your inner scientist—this step is crucial!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by clementine juice and zest along with vanilla extract. It should smell heavenly!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix unless you want tough cupcakes—nobody likes a tough cookie… or cupcake!
Step 5: Fill Your Liners
Scoop the batter into prepared liners about two-thirds full. Leave some space because they’ll puff up like fluffy clouds in the oven.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack.
To serve these spiced clementine cupcakes perfectly, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese frosting or simply dusting them with powdered sugar for that fancy touch! Enjoy every last crumb as you share these delightful treats with friends or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- These Spiced Clementine Cupcakes are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a delightful explosion of flavor that brings cheer to any occasion.
- The combination of spices and clementines makes them perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon snack.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 350°F while you zest and juice those clementines. Next, whip up your batter by blending wet ingredients before adding dry ones. Once mixed, fold in the spices for an aromatic delight. Finally, pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake until golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap clementines for mandarins or add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. You can even experiment with different spices like cardamom or nutmeg. For a fun twist, top with cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of powdered sugar!
Storing & Reheating
To store your Spiced Clementine Cupcakes, place them 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. Enjoy them cold or warm them gently in the microwave for a cozy treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve moist cupcakes, don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined.
- Always use fresh clementines for the best flavor and aroma.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Sometimes I make these cupcakes just to see my friends’ eyes light up when they take that first bite—it’s like magic every time!
FAQs :
What are Spiced Clementine Cupcakes?
Spiced clementine cupcakes are delightful treats made with fresh clementine juice and zest, combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. These cupcakes offer a unique flavor that balances sweetness and warmth, making them perfect for any occasion. The light and fluffy texture pairs beautifully with a creamy frosting, often flavored with additional citrus or spice. Enjoyed by both kids and adults, they can be a festive addition to your dessert table or a cozy treat on a chilly day.
How can I make Spiced Clementine Cupcakes gluten-free?
To make spiced clementine cupcakes gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that include xanthan gum or add it separately to ensure proper texture. Additionally, check that other ingredients like baking powder and frosting are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor without gluten, making these cupcakes accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Can I use regular oranges instead of clementines in this recipe?
Yes, you can use regular oranges instead of clementines in spiced clementine cupcakes. However, keep in mind that oranges may have a slightly different flavor profile—typically sweeter and less tart than clementines. Cranberry Orange Cupcakes recipe Adjust the sugar in the recipe if necessary to balance out the sweetness. The overall texture and taste will still be delightful, offering a fresh citrus twist to your cupcakes.
What frosting pairs well with Spiced Clementine Cupcakes?
Cream cheese frosting pairs exceptionally well with spiced clementine cupcakes due to its tangy flavor that complements the spices and citrus notes. You can also consider an orange buttercream for a more vibrant citrus flavor or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and clementine juice. Each option enhances the cupcake experience while keeping it moist and flavorful.
Conclusion for Spiced Clementine Cupcakes :
Spiced clementine cupcakes are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a unique twist on traditional desserts. The combination of zesty citrus and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that is sure to impress. With easy substitutions for dietary needs, these cupcakes can cater to various preferences while maintaining their deliciousness. Whether served at parties or enjoyed alone, these treats promise satisfaction with every bite.
Spiced Clementine Cupcakes
Spiced clementine cupcakes are a delightful treat that beautifully combines the bright zest of citrus with the warmth of spices. These light and fluffy cupcakes, infused with fresh clementine juice and zest, are complemented by aromatic cinnamon and ginger. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite offers a burst of flavor, making them perfect for celebrations or cozy afternoons. Whether you serve them at parties or enjoy them solo, these cupcakes are sure to brighten your day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 cup clementine juice (about 3 clementines)
- Zest of 2 clementines
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and ginger.
- In another bowl, beat melted butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in clementine juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just mixed.
- Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (50g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg






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