Grand Marnier Cupcakes

Infused with the vibrant citrus notes of orange liqueur, these Grand Marnier Cupcakes are a decadent treat that combine sophistication and sweetness in every bite. Featuring a moist, fluffy base enriched with zesty orange zest and a splash of Grand Marnier, these cupcakes are topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting laced with the same luxurious liqueur. Perfect for celebrations or a grown-up dessert indulgence, this recipe balances the tangy brightness of oranges with the creamy richness of smooth frosting. Garnished with a sprinkle of fresh orange zest, these cupcakes are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Ready in under 40 minutes, they’re the perfect combination of elegance and ease for any occasion.

Nutriscore Rating: 37/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:18 mins

Total Time:38 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 teaspoons Baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoons Salt
• 0.5 cups Unsalted butter, softened
• 0.75 cups Granulated sugar
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier (or other orange liqueur)
• 1 tablespoons Orange zest
• 0.5 cups Whole milk
• 2 cups Powdered sugar
• 4 ounces Cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoons Grand Marnier (for frosting)
• 0.25 cups Unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoons Orange zest (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat 1/2 cup softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of Grand Marnier, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest.

Step 5

On low speed, alternately mix in the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 7

Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

Step 8

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9

To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup softened butter together on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.

Step 10

Add the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of Grand Marnier, and beat until well combined and fluffy.

Step 11

Frost the completely cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or a spatula.

Step 12

Garnish with a light sprinkling of orange zest and serve. Enjoy your Grand Marnier Cupcakes!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1149.3 grams (1149.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4191

Total Fat 199.10g	255%
Saturated Fat 120.70g	604%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 900mg	300%
Sodium 1176mg	51%
Total Carbohydrate 552.80g	201%
Dietary Fiber 6.40g	23%
Total Sugars 405.80g
Protein 44.20g	88%

Vitamin D 165IU	824%
Calcium 394mg	30%
Iron 11mg	61%
Potassium 706mg	15%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.9%

Protein: 4.2%

Carbs: 52.9%