Strawberry Cupcakes with Creamy Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Strawberry cupcakes are the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it's a birthday, a family gathering, or just a weekend indulgence. These moist, fluffy cupcakes infused with fresh strawberries and topped with a rich, creamy strawberry buttercream frosting will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. In this article, you’ll get a detailed step-by-step recipe along with useful tips, ingredient substitutions, and presentation ideas that will help you create the perfect batch. Read on and discover how you can whip up these delightful strawberry cupcakes from scratch, and ensure they turn out picture-perfect every time!

What Are Strawberry Cupcakes?

Strawberry cupcakes are a delightful dessert made by incorporating fresh strawberries or strawberry puree into a soft, fluffy cupcake batter. The natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of the strawberries are complemented by a rich, creamy strawberry buttercream, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The buttercream is typically flavored with strawberry puree or strawberry extract, lending a beautiful pink color and a strong strawberry aroma to the frosting. Perfect for spring and summer, these cupcakes are a refreshing twist on the classic vanilla or chocolate cupcake and are sure to be a hit at any event.

Ingredients List for Strawberry Cupcakes

To make the perfect strawberry cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cupcakes, giving them structure and fluffiness.
• 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures the cupcakes rise nicely.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda – Aids in the rise and helps the cupcakes achieve a tender texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors in the cupcakes.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together and adds fluffiness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle background flavor that complements the strawberries.
• ½ cup whole milk – Keeps the batter moist.
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped – Adds natural sweetness and flavor to the cupcakes.
• 1 tablespoon strawberry puree (optional) – For an extra burst of strawberry flavor.

Ingredients List for Creamy Strawberry Buttercream

To create the perfect creamy strawberry buttercream frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – The base of the buttercream that creates a smooth, creamy texture.
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar – Provides sweetness and thickens the frosting.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream – Adds creaminess and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor of the frosting.
• ¼ cup fresh strawberry puree – Infuses the buttercream with a bright strawberry flavor.
• A pinch of salt – Balances out the sweetness.

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to get creative with your strawberry cupcakes, or if you're missing an ingredient, here are a few substitutions and variations that you can try:

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the whole milk in the cupcake recipe with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other non-dairy milk. For the buttercream, you can replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with the texture.
• Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter or buttercream.
• Strawberry Jam: If you’re short on fresh strawberries, you can use strawberry jam or preserves in both the cupcakes and the buttercream for a similar fruity flavor.
• Chocolate Variation: Add chocolate chips to the cupcake batter or create a chocolate strawberry buttercream by mixing in melted chocolate.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s walk through how to prepare these delightful strawberry cupcakes. Follow these steps carefully to ensure the best results.

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the cupcake tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Add the dry ingredients and milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in the strawberries: Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries and strawberry puree (if using), distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
7. Fill the cupcake liners: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, fill each cupcake liner about ¾ of the way full with the batter.
8. Bake the cupcakes: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the cupcakes: Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make Creamy Strawberry Buttercream: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Beat the butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until it becomes creamy and smooth, about 3 minutes.
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Add strawberry puree: Pour in the fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract, and beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy.
4. Adjust the consistency: If the buttercream is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Whip until fluffy: Beat the buttercream for another 2-3 minutes on high speed to make it extra fluffy and airy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing the cupcake batter can lead to dense cupcakes instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can result in a lumpy batter and uneven texture. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Overfilling the Cupcake Liners: Avoid filling the cupcake liners too much, as this can cause the batter to overflow. Stick to about ¾ full for a perfect rise.
• Undercooking or Overcooking: Keep a close eye on your cupcakes. If undercooked, they’ll be doughy in the center; if overcooked, they’ll be dry. Use a toothpick to test doneness.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present your strawberry cupcakes can make a big impact on their appeal. Here are some tips to elevate your cupcakes to the next level.

• Use Piping Tips: To frost your cupcakes like a pro, use a piping bag fitted with a large star or round tip. This will give your cupcakes a beautiful, bakery-quality look.
• Garnish with Fresh Strawberries: Place a small slice of fresh strawberry or a whole strawberry on top of each frosted cupcake for a burst of color and flavor.
• Sprinkles or Edible Glitter: Add a touch of sparkle by dusting the buttercream with edible glitter or sprinkles.
• Cupcake Wrappers: Use decorative cupcake wrappers to match your party’s theme or color scheme.

How to Serve Strawberry Cupcakes

These cupcakes are best served at room temperature, which allows the buttercream to have the perfect creamy texture. If you’ve stored them in the fridge, be sure to take them out 30 minutes before serving so they can soften slightly. Pair the cupcakes with a glass of cold milk, or for an adult twist, serve them with a glass of rosé or a light, fruity cocktail.

Presentation Ideas for Strawberry Cupcakes

• Tiered Cupcake Stand: Display the cupcakes on a multi-tiered cupcake stand for a beautiful presentation at events like baby showers, weddings, or birthdays.
• Gift Boxes: Pack the cupcakes into pretty boxes to give as gifts to friends and family.
• Cupcake Bouquets: Create a cupcake bouquet by arranging cupcakes on skewers and placing them in a decorative pot.

Strawberry Cupcake Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to create a smooth batter and creamy buttercream.
• Strain Strawberry Puree: To avoid seeds in your buttercream, strain the strawberry puree before adding it.
• Test Your Oven Temperature: If your cupcakes are consistently undercooked or overcooked, your oven’s temperature might be off. Use an oven thermometer to check the accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze strawberry cupcakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature and frost before serving.

Q: How long can I store the cupcakes?
A: The cupcakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use strawberry extract instead of fresh strawberries?
A: Yes, you can use strawberry extract in the buttercream or batter for a more intense strawberry flavor. However, fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and texture.

Q: Can I make mini cupcakes with this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to about 10-12 minutes for mini cupcakes.

Conclusion

Strawberry cupcakes with creamy strawberry buttercream are a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a birthday celebration, a casual family gathering, or just as a sweet treat for yourself, this recipe is simple yet delicious. With tips on substitutions, common mistakes to avoid, and creative presentation ideas, you’re set to create the perfect batch of strawberry cupcakes. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share the sweet results with friends and family!

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