Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes are a light, fluffy treat that capture the sweetness and vibrant flavor of ripe strawberries in every bite. These homemade cupcakes use fresh strawberries for a natural sweetness and a subtle fruity flavor, which makes them a delightful choice for any occasion. Topped with a smooth strawberry buttercream frosting, they are the perfect combination of sweet and refreshing. Whether for a birthday, picnic, or just a sweet afternoon snack, these cupcakes will impress with their light texture and burst of strawberry goodness.
Ingredients:
For the cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped or pureed
For the strawberry buttercream:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the chopped or pureed strawberries, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- 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 into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Strawberry Buttercream: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, and beat until smooth and fluffy. Add the pureed strawberries, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and beat until combined and the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the strawberry buttercream using a spatula or piping bag.
These Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes are a perfect way to celebrate the season of strawberries, offering a deliciously fruity flavor in every bite. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or for your next celebration!
