Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Indulge in these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, a perfect blend of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.
These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are the perfect summer treat, combining the classic flavors of shortcake with the lightness of cupcakes. Perfect for picnics, parties, or just a sweet indulgence!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
- Bursting with fresh strawberry flavor
- Easy to make, perfect for any occasion
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are a celebration in every bite. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a summer picnic, or simply looking to satisfy a sweet craving, these cupcakes fit the bill perfectly. Their charming appearance and delightful flavors make them a crowd-pleaser, ensuring smiles all around.
What sets these cupcakes apart is their versatility. You can easily customize them for different occasions by adding your favorite fruits or flavors. For a twist, consider incorporating blueberries or raspberries alongside the strawberries. This flexibility allows you to enjoy this recipe throughout the year, no matter the season.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the light and fluffy texture of these cupcakes, it's essential to properly cream the butter and sugar before adding the other ingredients. Take your time during this step, as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in delightful cupcakes that rise beautifully in the oven.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you've added the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined will help maintain that airy texture. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! Lastly, make sure to let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting them to prevent melting your whipped cream topping.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes shine when served fresh. For an added touch, consider serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that’s sure to impress your guests.
To elevate your serving presentation, use clear cups or small glass jars to layer the cupcakes, strawberries, and whipped cream. This not only makes for a beautiful display but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy their dessert. The layers create an enticing visual that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk.
Bake the Cupcakes
Line a cupcake pan with liners and fill each cup about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
Prepare the Strawberry Topping
In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Cupcakes
Cut the tops off the cooled cupcakes, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and replace the tops. Garnish with additional strawberries on top.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!
Storage Tips
To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but be mindful that the whipped cream topping may lose some of its fluffiness.
For optimal taste and texture, it’s best to add the whipped cream and strawberries just before serving. This prevents any sogginess and maintains the cupcakes' delightful structural integrity. If you have leftover strawberries, they can be stored separately in the fridge for a few days.
Nutrition Insights
While these cupcakes are a treat, they can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Strawberries provide essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthier fruit choice. The use of whipped cream gives a touch of indulgence, but it’s recommended to enjoy these cupcakes as an occasional dessert rather than a daily staple.
If you’re looking to make a lighter version, consider substituting some of the butter with applesauce or using a sugar substitute. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture and flavor slightly. The key is to find a balance that suits your taste while still enjoying the essence of this delightful dessert.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I substitute other fruits?
Absolutely! You can replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Indulge in these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, a perfect blend of fluffy cake, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes
What You'll Need
For the Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
For the Strawberry Topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
Line a cupcake pan with liners and fill each cup about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with sugar. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Cut the tops off the cooled cupcakes, layer with strawberries and whipped cream, and replace the tops. Garnish with additional strawberries on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g