Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

If you have a sweet spot for anything fruity and fluffy, then you’re going to absolutely adore this Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes strike the perfect balance between light, tender cake and the irresistible burst of fresh strawberries in every bite. With a luscious strawberry-infused frosting crowning each cupcake, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that feels just like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is your go-to answer for delightful, berry-packed happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing the perfect texture, flavor, and color in your strawberry cupcakes. Each component plays a vital role, from the fluffy all-purpose flour base to the juicy fresh strawberries that bring the cake to life.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cupcakes, ensuring a tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay light.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right while supporting structure.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind the batter while adding fluff and stability.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warm, comforting aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup whole milk: Balances the batter for smoothness and tenderness.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries (finely chopped): Delivers fresh bursts of strawberry goodness and natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup strawberry puree: Intensifies the berry flavor, soaking the cupcakes in vibrant strawberry essence.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for a sweet, silky frosting that whips up perfectly.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): The creamy base for an irresistible strawberry frosting.
• 2 tablespoons strawberry puree: Infuses your frosting with that signature fresh strawberry tang.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the strawberry flavors and rounds out the frosting’s taste.

How to Make Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mixing Bowls

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. This ensures your cupcakes will bake evenly and won’t stick, giving you perfectly shaped treats that are easy to remove and serve.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step evenly distributes the baking powder and salt throughout the flour for consistent texture and taste in every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air that helps create a tender, airy crumb in the cupcakes—a crucial step you don’t want to skip.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract. These ingredients build the structure and add depth of flavor to your cupcakes.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Alternately add the dry ingredients and the whole milk into the butter and sugar mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could make your cupcakes dense.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries and Puree

Gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries and strawberry puree with a spatula, distributing them evenly through the batter. These bursts of fresh fruit give the cupcakes their signature sweetness and moist texture.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let your cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack, which keeps their bottoms from getting soggy and helps them set perfectly before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Strawberry Frosting

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract. Mix until the frosting reaches a smooth and fluffy consistency, ready to be spread on your perfectly baked cupcakes.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, frost each one generously with your strawberry frosting. If you like, add fresh strawberry slices on top for an elegant finish and an extra pop of natural color and flavor.

How to Serve Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation dramatically. Try thin slices of ripe strawberries, a sprinkle of edible flower petals, or even a few chocolate shavings for a delightful surprise. These add visual appeal and enhance the strawberry theme beautifully.

Side Dishes

Strawberry cupcakes pair wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad with balsamic glaze or a refreshing fruit salad featuring citrus and mint. For drinks, consider a chilled glass of sparkling rosé or a simple glass of milk to complement the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand for a stunning display or serve them in personalized cupcake boxes. For a fun twist, turn your cupcakes into mini strawberry parfaits by layering crumbled cupcakes with strawberry yogurt and fresh berries in clear glasses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover strawberry cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cake moist, ready whenever you want to indulge again.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and frost fresh for the best taste.

Reheating

Warm your cupcakes slightly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to bring back their softness and enhance the fresh strawberry flavor. Avoid reheating the frosting directly to maintain its texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding to the batter, so you don’t end up with too much liquid and soggy cupcakes.

How can I make the strawberry flavor stronger?

Try adding a few drops of strawberry extract to both the batter and the frosting. This little boost intensifies the berry flavor without overpowering the natural freshness.

Are these cupcakes suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe uses no animal-derived gelatin or ingredients, making it perfect for vegetarian diets.

Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free option?

Yes, substituting whole milk with almond milk or oat milk works well to maintain the moisture and tenderness of the cupcakes.

What’s the best way to get a smooth frosting?

Beat the butter until it’s very creamy before slowly adding powdered sugar and liquids. This step ensures your frosting is silky, fluffy, and perfect for spreading or piping.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe is a wonderful way to brighten up any day with a touch of homemade sweetness and bright berry flavor. From the moist cake to the luscious strawberry frosting, every bite is a little celebration. I truly hope you enjoy baking and sharing these cupcakes as much as I do—because nothing beats the joy of seeing smiles over something freshly baked and utterly delicious.

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