Get ready for a sweet treat with these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes! They are fluffy, soft, and loaded with fresh strawberries. Topped with whipped cream, they’re a perfect bite-sized delight.
I love how easy they are to make! It feels like having summer in a cupcake. Ideal for parties, or just when you need a smile. Don’t forget to sneak an extra one for yourself! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is your base for the cupcakes. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter helps make the cupcakes tender. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or coconut oil as alternatives, but the flavor will differ slightly. I usually stick with butter for taste!
Granulated Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and moisture. If you’re avoiding refined sugar, coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia can be used; just adjust the quantity to taste.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is essential for your whipped topping. If you want a lighter option, try using whipped coconut cream or even a dairy-free heavy cream alternative, though the texture might change a bit.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh is best, but if they’re out of season, frozen strawberries work too. Just remember to thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing with sugar to avoid sogginess!
How Can I Ensure My Cupcakes Are Moist and Fluffy?
The mixing technique and ingredient ratios will greatly affect your cupcakes’ texture. Here’s how you get them right:
- Lightly cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. This introduces air, which helps your cupcakes rise.
- When adding eggs, beat them one at a time. This allows them to emulsify better, adding richness.
- Incorporating the flour and milk alternately prevents overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix gently until just combined.
- Don’t overfill the cupcake liners! Filling them about 2/3 full allows for rising while leaving space for toppings.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely to lock in moisture before adding the strawberry filling and whipped cream.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For The Strawberry Filling:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
For The Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Fresh strawberry slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of preparation time and 20 minutes of baking time. Once your cupcakes are baked, they’ll need to cool completely before adding the filling and topping, so set aside some extra time to let them come to room temperature!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to get ready for your batter.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agent. Once mixed, set the bowl aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes, and it’s a crucial step for fluffy cupcakes!
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract to the mixture for that lovely flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, alternately add the flour mixture and the whole milk to the butter mixture. Start and finish with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing!
6. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to give them space to rise without overflowing.
7. Bake the Cupcakes:
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one cupcake; it should come out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Prepare Strawberry Filling:
While the cupcakes are cooling, mix the finely chopped strawberries with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to become syrupy and flavorful.
9. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to use it!
10. Assemble the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a spoon or piping bag to spread a layer of the strawberry filling on top of each cupcake. Be generous!
11. Add Whipped Cream:
Pipe or spoon a lovely swirl of whipped cream over the strawberry filling for extra deliciousness!
12. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top each cupcake with fresh strawberry slices for a beautiful garnish. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy these tasty treats!
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Filling?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with sugar to avoid a watery filling.
How Should I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the whipped cream topping separate until you’re ready to serve, as it may deflate over time.
Can I Make These Cupcakes in Advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just prepare the strawberry filling and whipped cream topping closer to serving time to keep them fresh.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream on hand, you can substitute it with chilled coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a lighter option. Just be aware that the texture and flavor may differ slightly!