Lime Margarita Cupcakes

It's never too early in the day for tequila if you disguise it in a cupcake!

Cupcake Ingredients:

• 3 cups flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter (unsalted)
• 4 eggs
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3 limes (zested and juiced)

Frosting Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar
• 8 egg whites
• 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) butter (unsalted)
• 2 ½ tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• pinch of coarse salt
• 2-4 tbsp tequila

(Makes 2 dozen)

Cupcake directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325˚ F and prepare 2 cupcake pans with cupcake liners.

2. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. With a KitchenAid (or any type of mixer), use the paddle attachment on medium-high to mix together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. (takes approximately 3-5 minutes).

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time.

5. Add the lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla.

6. Put mixer on low speed and alternate between pouring in dry ingredients and buttermilk.

7. Fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full. 8. Bake for approximately 20-24 minutes. Let cool.

Frosting Directions:

1. Combine sugar, egg whites, and salt in a bowl and place it over a pot of simmering water.

2. Whisk frequently and keep on heat until sugar is dissolved.

3. Place mixture into KitchenAid and mix on medium-high with whisk attachment. Beat until stiff and then let cool.

4. On medium speed, add butter (in increments).

5. Continue to beat mixture until thick and smooth (about 3-5 minutes).

6. Add lime juice and tequila. Frost your cupcakes. Then cut limes into slices and place one slice on each. Fiesta time!