Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
Indulge in the delightful taste of strawberry shortcake in cupcake form! These moist cupcakes are topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Perfectly fluffy and topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, they are sure to impress at your next gathering!
Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
- Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
- Light and fluffy cupcakes that are easy to make
- Perfectly paired with whipped cream for a classic taste
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Strawberry shortcake is a beloved dessert, and transforming it into cupcakes brings a new level of enjoyment. The combination of moist vanilla cupcakes and fresh strawberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Each bite delivers a sweet, fruity burst that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, these strawberry shortcake cupcakes are sure to impress your taste buds.
The use of fresh strawberries not only enhances the taste but also adds a vibrant pop of color to the cupcakes. Their natural sweetness balances beautifully with the lightness of the whipped cream, making these treats both visually appealing and delicious. Plus, they’re perfect for showcasing the best of seasonal produce, ensuring every bite is fresh and flavorful.
Easy to Make and Serve
These strawberry shortcake cupcakes are surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers. The straightforward steps and simple ingredients mean you can whip them up quickly, making them an excellent choice for last-minute gatherings or potlucks. With just a few basic pantry staples, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Serving these cupcakes is also a breeze. They are perfectly portioned, eliminating the need for slicing and serving a larger cake. Just grab a cupcake and enjoy! This convenience makes them ideal for parties, picnics, or even a cozy night in. Plus, they are easy to transport, so you can share the joy with friends and family wherever you go.
Customizable for Any Occasion
One of the great things about these strawberry shortcake cupcakes is their versatility. While the classic version features strawberries, you can easily switch it up with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches depending on your preference or seasonal availability. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a different variation each time you make them, keeping things fresh and exciting.
You can also experiment with the frosting! While whipped cream is traditional, consider adding flavored extracts or even cream cheese for a richer topping. For a fun twist, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top for that authentic shortcake texture. These cupcakes can be personalized to suit any taste, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings or themed parties.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Combine all ingredients to create a delightful treat!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.
Bake the Cupcakes
Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
Make the Whipped Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Assemble the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are cooled, top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of fresh strawberries.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry shortcake cupcakes!
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your strawberry shortcake cupcakes turn out perfectly, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small discrepancies can affect the final product. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid compacting it, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
Also, allow your butter to soften at room temperature for the best creaming results. Creamed butter and sugar should be light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cupcake. Finally, don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will keep your cupcakes light and airy.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
To keep your strawberry shortcake cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. If you want to make them ahead of time, consider baking the cupcakes and storing them without frosting. Add the whipped cream and strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
For an impressive presentation, consider serving the cupcakes on a decorative platter. You can garnish with additional whole strawberries or mint leaves for a pop of color. This simple touch elevates the dessert, making it more visually appealing and perfect for any occasion.
Perfect Pairings
These strawberry shortcake cupcakes pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a refreshing option, serve them alongside iced tea or lemonade, both of which complement the fruity flavors. If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, a glass of sparkling wine or champagne adds a touch of elegance and celebration.
For coffee lovers, a rich cup of coffee or espresso offers a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes. You can also consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. The combination of warm cupcakes and cold ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It's best to bake the cupcakes fresh, but you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
→ Are these cupcakes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Indulge in the delightful taste of strawberry shortcake in cupcake form! These moist cupcakes are topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings
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
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 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) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, until just combined.
Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Once the cupcakes are cooled, top each with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a few slices of fresh strawberries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g