10 Citrusy Desserts Perfect for Spring Baking

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There’s no better way to celebrate spring than with desserts that feel as fresh and sunny as the season itself. Enter: citrus. Whether it’s lemon, orange, or something in between, citrus adds that perfect pop of brightness to any sweet treat.

These desserts are light, flavorful, and just the right amount of tangy – perfect for spring brunches, afternoon coffee, or anytime you want something that tastes like a slice of sunshine. From zesty muffins to light cakes and fresh, citrusy breakfasts, these are the kind of recipes that make your kitchen smell amazing – and might just become new seasonal favorites.

Orange Cupcakes

These cupcakes are soft, citrusy, and topped with the dreamiest orange cream cheese frosting. They’re easy to make, super fresh-tasting, and perfect for spring get-togethers… or just because cupcakes. Full recipe: Orange Cupcakes

Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins

These muffins are all about that cozy, citrus-meets-chocolate combo. They’re made with Greek yogurt and olive oil, so they bake up super moist and tender, with a bright hit of orange from both the zest and juice. Full recipe: Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins

Orange Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This two-layer orange cake is soft, flavorful, and made with both fresh orange juice and zest for bold citrus flavor in every bite. It’s frosted with a tangy orange cream cheese frosting that’s not too sweet (thanks to a clever trick involving cornstarch). Full recipe: Orange Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Orange Loaf Cake

This one’s all about everyday simplicity – a no-fuss, melt-in-your-mouth loaf cake that’s full of fresh orange flavor. It’s made with olive oil and yogurt, which means it’s extra moist, tender, and a little lighter than your average loaf. Full recipe: Orange Loaf Cake

Orange Cranberry Oatmeal Muffins

Made with cranberries, orange zest, and a mix of yogurt and oats, these muffins are moist, fluffy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and tart. They’re great for baking ahead and hold up beautifully for on-the-go mornings or snack breaks. Full recipe: Orange Cranberry Oatmeal Muffins

Orange Shortbread

These buttery, slice-and-bake shortbread cookies are crisp, zesty, and so easy to make. The orange flavor comes through beautifully thanks to fresh zest, and while they’re delicious on their own, a quick dip in chocolate takes them to a whole new level. Full recipe: Orange Shortbread

Mandarin Orange Muffins

These muffins are super moist and packed with bright citrus flavor thanks to sweet mandarin oranges and creamy Greek yogurt. They’re light but satisfying, and the optional glaze on top adds a little extra punch of sweetness. Full recipe: Mandarin Orange Muffins

Lemon Muffins

These muffins are bright, super moist, and full of fresh lemon flavor thanks to both the juice and zest. Made with yogurt and olive oil, they’re a little lighter than your average muffin but still totally satisfying. Full recipe: Lemon Muffins

Mini No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Tarts

These cute little tarts are everything you love about cheesecake, minus the hassle. No oven, no water bath – just a light, lemony cheesecake filling in a buttery graham cracker crust. They’re creamy, tangy, and served chilled for a perfect spring or summer treat. Full recipe: Mini No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Tarts

Orange Pancakes

These soft, fluffy pancakes are made with ricotta cheese and plenty of fresh orange zest and juice, giving them a creamy texture and a bright, citrusy flavor. They’re easy enough for a weekend breakfast but feel special enough for spring brunch. Full recipe: Orange Pancakes