Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Have you ever seen cupcakes so pretty? These Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. With chunks of fresh strawberries in the cake batter and a luscious pink frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration. Their delightful flavor will undoubtedly impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is filled with fresh strawberry goodness that brings summer right to your taste buds.
• Versatile Occasion Treat: Perfect for birthday parties, bridal showers, or simply a sweet treat at home.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make baking a breeze, even for beginners.
• Beautiful Presentation: The pink frosting and fresh strawberries create an eye-catching dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other flavors to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Muffin tin
• Paper liners

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric stand mixer: Makes whipping butter and sugar effortless for a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Allows easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without making a mess.
• Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for your cupcakes, ensuring they bake evenly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 2/3 cup cake flour
– 3/4 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
– 3/4 cup + 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/3 cup fresh strawberry puree
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 5 drops red food coloring (optional)
– 3/4 cup diced strawberries (about 1/4-inch pieces)
– Diced and whole strawberries for topping (about 1 lb small strawberries)
– 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp strawberry puree (for frosting)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter (nearly at room temperature)
– 1/4 cup salted butter (nearly at room temperature)
– 2 1/2 – 2 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
– 4 drops red food coloring (optional)

How to Make Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that the cupcakes bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Sift together the following in a mixing bowl:
Cake flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt

Whisk for about 20 seconds and set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In an electric stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
Whip together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the bowl occasionally.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add one large egg first, then mix in two large egg whites one at a time. In a separate measuring cup:
Whisk together buttermilk, fresh strawberry puree, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with half of the wet mixture:
Start and end with flour.
Mix just until combined after each addition.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in the diced strawberries. Divide batter among lined muffin cups, filling each about three-fourths full. Bake for 20 – 23 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool before frosting.

Step 7: Make Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

In a small saucepan:
Heat strawberry puree over medium-low heat, simmering until reduced to about three tablespoons (10 – 14 minutes).
Once cooled, whip together unsalted and salted butter until very pale. Gradually add powdered sugar, reduced strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and optional food coloring until fluffy.

Step 8: Assemble Cupcakes

Top each cupcake with small diced strawberries before piping on frosting. Decorate further with whole strawberries if desired. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting!

How to Serve Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

These delightful Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or simply a sweet treat at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

For Birthdays

• Birthday Cake Alternative: Use these cupcakes instead of a traditional cake for a fun and easy-to-serve option.
• Cupcake Tower: Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered cake stand for an impressive display.

At Picnics

• Portable Dessert: Pack these cupcakes in a sturdy container for a sweet addition to your picnic basket.
• Pair with Fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries and whipped cream for an extra fruity touch.

During Tea Time

• Tea Pairing: Complement these cupcakes with a light herbal tea or iced tea for refreshment.
• Miniature Treats: Offer them as part of a dessert platter alongside scones and finger sandwiches.

For Gatherings

• Dessert Table Feature: Include them as the centerpiece of your dessert table at gatherings or potlucks.
• Custom Toppings: Encourage guests to add their toppings like sprinkles or extra fruit to personalize their cupcake.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Perfecting these Strawberry Cupcakes is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor in both the cupcakes and frosting.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary. Test doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Serving these Strawberry Cupcakes can be even more delightful with some complementary side dishes. Here’s a list of ideas that pair wonderfully.

1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and complements the strawberry flavor beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can offer balance and freshness alongside the sweetness of cupcakes.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination that enhances the cupcake experience.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts, creating an interesting flavor contrast.
5. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Provide warm chocolate sauce for guests who enjoy dipping their cupcakes for an indulgent twist.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso can enhance the flavors and provide a nice pick-me-up after dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and flour. Expired ingredients can ruin the texture and flavor of your cupcakes.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined for a light and airy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Frosting warm cupcakes will melt the frosting. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before adding frosting.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science! Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep cupcakes in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

• Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for best results.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cupcakes on a baking tray for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a steamer basket over simmering water for about 5 minutes; this keeps them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store leftover Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them without frosting for later enjoyment.

Can I use frozen strawberries in these cupcakes?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter. This prevents excess moisture.

What if my frosting is too runny?

If your frosting is runny, add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Also, make sure your strawberry puree is properly reduced.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular cake flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What other flavors can I add to the buttercream?

You can experiment by adding lemon zest or vanilla extract for added flavor depth in your buttercream.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting are not only visually stunning but also bursting with fresh flavors. They make a perfect addition to any celebration or as a delightful treat any day. Feel free to customize by adding different fruits or flavorings according to your taste!