Indulge in Sweetness: Homemade Strawberry Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting
Introduction
Looking to make a dessert that’s both visually stunning and absolutely delicious? These Strawberry Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting are the perfect choice. With a light, fluffy texture, a burst of strawberry flavor, and a creamy buttercream topping, they are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, parties, or just a treat-yourself day.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (120g) finely diced fresh strawberries
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for topping
- Strawberry syrup (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
- Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 4: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
- Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to frost the cooled cupcakes.
- Garnish each cupcake with a fresh strawberry on top.
- Drizzle strawberry syrup over the frosting for an extra touch of sweetness (optional).
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Cupcakes
- Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Dice the strawberries finely to prevent large chunks from sinking in the batter.
- Add a drop of pink food coloring to the batter for a vibrant look.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting are guaranteed to delight both the eyes and the taste buds. With their irresistible combination of fresh strawberries, creamy frosting, and a soft cake base, they’ll be the star of your dessert table. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your baking skills!