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 they also bring a burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or just a sweet treat at home, these cupcakes are sure to impress your guests and family alike. The addition of fresh strawberry puree in both the cupcakes and the frosting elevates these treats to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh strawberries make these cupcakes incredibly tasty and refreshing.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to fancy celebrations.
• Fun to Decorate: The pink frosting and strawberries on top make these cupcakes visually delightful.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip these up quickly.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful colors and textures will wow your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting, you’ll need some essential tools. Gathering everything beforehand makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Sifter
• Rubber spatula
• Muffin tin
• Paper liners

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps achieve fluffy batter by efficiently whipping butter and sugar together.
• Sifter: Sifting flour ensures there are no lumps, resulting in a lighter cupcake texture.
• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your cupcakes perfectly and ensuring even baking.

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, diced into about 1/4-inch pieces
– Diced and whole strawberries for topping (about 1 lb small strawberries)
– 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp strawberry puree
– 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 your cupcakes bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together:
Cake flour,
Baking powder,
Baking soda,
Salt.

Whisk this mixture for about 20 seconds, then set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together:
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar

Mix until it becomes pale and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides occasionally if you’re not using a scraper attachment.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Mix in:
1. One large egg.
2. Two large egg whites one at a time.

In another liquid measuring cup, whisk together:
Buttermilk,
Fresh strawberry puree,
Vanilla extract.

Then combine this mixture gradually with the butter mixture.

Step 5: Combine Dry & Wet Mixtures

Working in three separate batches, alternate adding:
1. One-third of the dry flour mixture.
2. Half of the buttermilk mixture.

Mix until just combined after each addition.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Gently fold in:
Diced strawberries (3/4 cup).

Then divide the batter among 12 paper-lined muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake for about 20 – 23 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the muffin tin for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

In a small saucepan, heat:
1. Half a cup + two tablespoons of strawberry puree over medium-low heat.
Simmer until reduced by about two-thirds (to roughly three tablespoons). This takes about 10 -14 minutes. Allow it to cool in a bowl after measuring.

Step 9: Whip Butter for Frosting

In your stand mixer bowl, whip together:
1. Unsalted butter (half a cup)
2. Salted butter (a quarter cup)

Beat until very pale and fluffy.

Step 10: Combine Ingredients for Frosting

Gradually add:
1. One cup of powdered sugar,
2. Three tablespoons of reduced strawberry puree,
3. Vanilla extract,
4. Optional red food coloring.

Continue mixing while adding remaining powdered sugar until you reach desired consistency.

Step 11: Assemble Cupcakes

Top each cooled cupcake with a small mound of diced strawberries, pipe frosting around them, then finish off with whole small strawberries as decoration.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting! Store leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.

How to Serve Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting are delightful and versatile treats. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their beauty and flavor at any occasion.

For a Birthday Celebration

• Candle Toppers: Add colorful candles for the birthday celebration, making the cupcakes festive.
• Themed Wrappers: Use themed cupcake liners that match the party decor for an extra touch of charm.

At a Summer Picnic

• Fruit Skewers: Pair cupcakes with fresh fruit skewers for a refreshing taste that complements the sweetness.
• Lemonade Stand: Set up a lemonade station nearby to quench thirst and balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.

During High Tea

• Mini Sandwiches: Serve small cucumber or smoked salmon sandwiches alongside these cupcakes for a classic tea experience.
• Herbal Tea Selection: Offer a variety of herbal teas that pair nicely with strawberry flavors, such as chamomile or mint.

As a Dessert Buffet

• Cupcake Towers: Create a stunning display by stacking cupcakes on tiered stands to add height and interest.
• Chocolate Dipping Station: Provide melted chocolate for guests to dip their cupcakes, adding an indulgent twist.

How to Perfect Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Perfecting your Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cupcakes turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give your cupcakes the best flavor and texture. Avoid frozen if possible.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to maintain light and fluffy cupcakes. Overmixing can lead to dense textures.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperatures, preventing undercooked or overcooked cupcakes.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and helps maintain shape.
• Taste Your Frosting: Adjust sweetness by adding powdered sugar gradually. This allows you to achieve your desired frosting consistency and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

Pair your Strawberry Cupcakes with complementary side dishes for a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits enhances the fruity notes of the cupcakes while providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in cups for a light yet indulgent addition that balances sweetness.
3. Savory Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like brie and goat cheese, which provide a savory counterpoint to sweet flavors.
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Salty-sweet snacks like these add crunch and contrast beautifully with strawberry flavors.
5. Mixed Nuts: A bowl of seasoned mixed nuts provides protein and crunch, making it an excellent snack option alongside desserts.
6. Mini Quiches: These savory bites pair well with sweet treats, creating a delightful balance at any gathering or brunch event.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your cupcakes turn out delightful.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cupcakes tough. Mix until just combined for fluffy results.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Packing flour can result in dry cupcakes.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting on warm cupcakes can melt and cause a mess.
• Using overly ripe strawberries: Select fresh, firm strawberries for both the batter and topping. Overly ripe strawberries may alter texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the frosting separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

• Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap for best results.

Reheating Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place cupcakes on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cupcakes on high for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a steam basket over boiling water for about 5 minutes to gently heat cupcakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, add a pinch of salt or more strawberry puree to balance flavors without compromising texture.

Can I substitute the cake flour?

You can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser than using cake flour specifically designed for light cakes.

What is the best way to decorate Strawberry Cupcakes?

Top with fresh strawberries and pipe extra strawberry buttercream for a professional look. Consider adding edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Are these cupcakes suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! The vibrant color and delicious flavors make these cupcakes perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any celebration.

Final Thoughts

These Strawberry Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream Frosting are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With endless customization options—from added sprinkles to different fruit toppings—you can create your own version while impressing family and friends. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try!