Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a dessert that perfectly captures the sweet, fresh taste of summer, look no further than this delightful Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe. Each bite bursts with juicy strawberries folded right into a tender, moist cake, crowned with luscious whipped cream frosting that’s light as a cloud. These cupcakes are as charming to serve as they are delicious, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a special treat to brighten up any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple yet absolutely essential. Each component plays its part in creating the tender crumb, the subtle sweetness, and the fresh strawberry flavor that defines this classic dessert.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and lightness to the cupcake.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cupcakes a nice rise and fluffy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and tenderizes the cake.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances overall flavor.
• ½ cup whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• ¾ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries: The star ingredient, infusing fresh strawberry flavor and moistness.
• For the whipped cream frosting:
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped to soft peaks making a heavenly, airy topping.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting gently and helps it hold shape.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the strawberries and enriches the creaminess.
• Optional garnish: Sliced strawberries or extra chopped strawberries for a pretty finish.

How to Make Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This sets the stage for your cupcakes to bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix will soon be the foundation of your cupcake’s tender crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this aeration is what gives the cupcakes their lovely texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract for that delightful aroma and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients Alternately

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing while still creating a smooth batter.

Step 6: Fold in Fresh Strawberries

Carefully fold in the finely chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly while preserving their juicy texture that will burst inside each cupcake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting

Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form. This creates a light, airy topping that perfectly balances the moist cupcake base.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Spread or pipe the whipped cream onto the cooled cupcakes and top with sliced strawberries or extra chopped strawberries for an irresistible finish.

How to Serve Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries sliced elegantly on top add a pop of color and extra fruity brightness, while a light dusting of powdered sugar can give your cupcakes a charming, delicate sparkle. Mint leaves also make a lovely, aromatic addition.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or a light, fruity tea to complement the sweetness. For a brunch or afternoon tea, fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve them on a pretty tiered cake stand for a festive look, or place cupcakes in individual clear boxes with ribbons to gift friends and family. For a fun twist, you can also hollow out the cupcakes slightly and add a dollop of strawberry jam before frosting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, keep your Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes refrigerated in an airtight container. The whipped cream frosting keeps best when chilled, and the cupcakes are best enjoyed within 24 hours to savor their fresh, delicate taste.

Freezing

Unfrosted cupcakes freeze very well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw completely before whipping up the frosting and decorating them fresh.

Reheating

Since these cupcakes feature whipped cream frosting, reheating is not recommended. Allow frozen cupcakes to thaw fully at room temperature then add the whipped cream frosting just before serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Fresh strawberries are best in this Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe due to their texture and flavor. Frozen strawberries can add too much moisture and become mushy, affecting the batter consistency.

How do I make sure the whipped cream frosting stays stable?

Using cold heavy cream and chilling your mixing bowl helps the cream whip to stiff peaks more easily. Adding powdered sugar helps the frosting hold shape longer, making it perfect for piping or spreading.

Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?

Yes! You can use unsweetened almond or oat milk as a substitute for whole milk. Just keep in mind it might slightly alter the richness of the cupcakes but won’t affect the overall deliciousness.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Absolutely! This Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe is a sweet and mild treat perfect for kids and adults alike, especially since it uses natural fruit and a light whipped cream frosting.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from being soggy from the strawberries?

Finely chopping the strawberries and folding them gently into the batter helps distribute moisture evenly without making the cupcakes soggy. Using very ripe but firm strawberries also contributes to the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dessert that tastes like a little bite of summer, and this Strawberries & Cream Cupcakes Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes bring joy with every fluffy, creamy, strawberry-filled bite. So don your apron and give this recipe a try—you’ll be making smiles for days!

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