Strawberry cupcakes are like a spring day in dessert form, bursting with vibrant flavor and a sweet aroma that dances around the kitchen. The moment you bite into one, you’re greeted by fluffy cake and fresh strawberries that melt in your mouth, leaving you dreaming of sunlit picnics and laughter-filled gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this easy breakfast ideas recipe.
These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, brunches, or just a Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. I’ll never forget the first time I baked strawberry cupcakes; my friends devoured them so fast I wondered if they were part-time vacuum cleaners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These strawberry cupcakes are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for bakers of all levels
- The fresh strawberries provide a burst of flavor that’s both sweet and slightly tart
- Their beautiful pink hue makes them visually appealing and perfect for any celebration
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed with various frostings or toppings
I remember the first time I made these strawberry cupcakes; my family exclaimed they were the best thing since sliced bread!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Choose a good quality flour for a light and fluffy texture in your cupcakes.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar works best here; it helps create that perfect sweetness without overpowering the strawberries.
- Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh! It’s essential for making your cupcakes rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; trust me, salt is a cupcake’s best friend.
- Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter is key for creamy batter; it adds richness to each bite.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture.
- Milk: Whole milk will give your cupcakes moisture; don’t skimp on this one!
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for maximum flavor. Chop them into small pieces before adding them to the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a warm sweetness that complements the strawberries wonderfully.
- Cream Cheese Frosting (optional): For an indulgent finish, whip up some cream cheese frosting—it’s heavenly!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Cupcake Liners: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while lining your cupcake tray with colorful liners. The colors will set the festive mood.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cupcakes.
Cream Butter and Sugar Until Fluffy: In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. It should look like fluffy clouds in dessert heaven!
Add Eggs One at a Time: Incorporate eggs individually into your butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This helps maintain that airy texture we all love.
Add Milk and Vanilla Extract : Pour in milk and vanilla extract into the mixture; stir until just combined. The batter will be smooth, inviting you to dive right in!
Add Chopped Strawberries and Fold Gently : Carefully fold in chopped strawberries using a spatula to keep their shape intact. You want those ruby gems scattered throughout each cupcake.
Fill Liners & Bake : Spoon the batter into cupcake liners about two-thirds full—this gives them room to rise without spilling over. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
And there you have it! Your kitchen will be filled with that irresistible aroma of strawberry goodness—just try not to eat them all before they’re frosted!
Now go ahead and enjoy these strawberry cupcakes as they are or top them off with luscious cream cheese frosting for an extra treat! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!
You Must Know
- The secret to delicious strawberry cupcakes lies in using fresh strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color
- Don’t skip the frosting; it’s the cherry on top, or should I say strawberry?
- These treats are perfect for any occasion, making them a crowd-pleaser!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cupcake batter. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures even distribution, followed by wet ingredients for a smooth blend that bakes evenly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. You can also add lemon zest for an extra zing or toss in some chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them and enjoy within a week.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients to ensure your cupcakes rise beautifully
- Avoid overmixing the batter; gentle folding keeps them light and fluffy
- For the freshest taste, use strawberries at their peak ripeness!
Sharing my first experience baking strawberry cupcakes brings back such joy; my friends devoured them! Their ecstatic faces made all the flour-covered chaos worthwhile—proof that sweets can create unforgettable memories. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but thawed frozen strawberries may make the cupcakes soggy.
What frosting pairs best with strawberry cupcakes?
Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream enhances their fruity flavor perfectly.
How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking?
Ensure not to overmix the batter and bake at the correct temperature.
Strawberry Cupcakes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Strawberry cupcakes are the perfect springtime treat, combining fluffy cake with juicy strawberries for a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for birthdays, brunches, or just a sweet pick-me-up, these delightful cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser. With their vibrant color and easy preparation, they’ll bring joy to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Cream cheese frosting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in milk and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
- Spoon the batter into cupcake liners (about two-thirds full) and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (75g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg