Ingredients
6 tablespoons butter, softened1 cup packed brown sugar1 large egg1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 teaspoon grated orange zest1 cup all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon baking soda1/2 cup chopped pecansFROSTING:1/4 cup butter, softened2 cups confectioners’ sugar1-1/2 teaspoons grated orange zest2 to 4 teaspoons orange juice
Preparation
In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg. Beat in applesauce, vanilla and orange zest. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in pecans.
Fill paper-lined muffin cups half full. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
For frosting, in a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and enough orange juice to achieve spreading consistency. Frost cupcakes.
