Strawberry Cupcakes with Pink Buttercream
Strawberry Cupcakes with Pink Buttercream are a delightful treat that brings a burst of fruity flavor and sweetness to any occasion. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sunny afternoon, these cupcakes are as fun to make as they are to eat! 🍓🧁
Why make this recipe?
Making Strawberry Cupcakes with Pink Buttercream is a great way to enjoy the fresh taste of strawberries in a sweet, fluffy dessert. They are easy to prepare, visually striking with their pink frosting, and deeply satisfying to taste. Plus, who can resist the charm of a freshly baked cupcake adorned with bright pink buttercream and a fresh strawberry on top? 🎉✨
How to prepare Strawberry Cupcakes
Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 1⁄2 tsp baking powder 🥄
- 1⁄4 tsp salt 🧂
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar 🍬
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk 🥛
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped 🍓
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting) 🧈
- 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted 🍬
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (or milk) 🥛
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting) 🍦
- A few drops of pink food coloring (optional) 🌸
- Fresh strawberries (for topping) 🍓
- Red currants or raspberries (optional) 🍇
- Sprinkles or pink sugar crystals ✨
- Dusting of powdered sugar 🍬
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. 🏠
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside. 🥣
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 🧁
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. 🍦
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until well combined. 🥛
- Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries. 🍓
- Divide the batter evenly among the lined cupcake cups. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely. 🕒
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring. 🌸
- Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them generously with the pink buttercream. Top with fresh strawberries, red currants, or sprinkles as desired. 🍓✨
How to serve Strawberry Cupcakes
Serve these delightful cupcakes on a platter and adorn them with additional fresh strawberries or colorful sprinkles. They are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. Enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of your favorite tea! 🌈🧁
How to store Strawberry Cupcakes
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving for best flavor! ❄️
Tips for preparing Strawberry Cupcakes
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for light cupcakes.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, but you can use frozen ones if fresh is not available—just make sure to thaw and chop them first!
- Adjust the amount of pink food coloring to achieve your preferred shade. ✨
Variations
- For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor.
- You can also replace some of the strawberries with crushed raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry version! 🍇🍓
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw and chop them before adding to the batter.
2. How can I make the cupcakes lighter?
Be careful not to overmix the batter. Folding in the strawberries gently will also help keep the batter airy.
3. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them right before serving for the best texture.
Enjoy these delicious Strawberry Cupcakes with Pink Buttercream and bring a smile to every bite! 🍓🧁