Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into a vibrant, taste-bud-tingling adventure! These Fruity Pebbles Funfetti Cupcakes with Key Lime Buttercream are not just a dessert – they're a celebration of childhood nostalgia and gourmet creativity. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake bursting with colorful cereal, topped with a tangy key lime frosting that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're hosting a party, craving a sweet treat, or looking to impress your friends and family, these cupcakes are your ticket to dessert superstardom!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup Fruity Pebbles cereal
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vanilla cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and milk. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and well incorporated.
- Gently fold in 1/2 cup of Fruity Pebbles cereal into the cake batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the key lime buttercream, beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Once cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe or spread the key lime buttercream onto each cupcake.
- Garnish the frosted cupcakes by sprinkling additional Fruity Pebbles on top for extra crunch and color.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Ensure all your ingredients (eggs, milk, butter) are at room temperature for a smoother batter and more consistent baking.
- Don't Overmix: When combining cake mix ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cupcakes.
- Cereal Suspension Trick: Toss the Fruity Pebbles in a tiny bit of flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Piping Perfection: For a professional look, use a piping bag with a star tip when applying the key lime buttercream.
- Storage Hack: To keep cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and add a slice of bread to maintain moisture.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the buttercream a day in advance and refrigerate. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before frosting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
