Strawberry Cupcakes

Name: Strawberry Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter; 1 cup sugar; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped)

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. Strawberry cupcakes are a perfect blend of sweet and fruity flavors, making them an irresistible dessert. With a moist base and creamy strawberry frosting, these cupcakes are ideal for birthdays, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home. Easy to make and visually stunning, they are sure to be a hit with everyone you share them with.

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients.

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. Preparation time is 20 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cupcake) contains approximately 200 calories, 3g protein, 10g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g sugars. This is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, cream together 1/2 cup butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup milk.
7. Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped fresh strawberries.
8. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

Alternative Ingredients

If fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries, just make sure to thaw and drain them well. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond milk instead of regular milk.

Serving and Pairings

These strawberry cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a great addition to a tea party or picnic setting.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, and frost just before enjoying.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cupcakes.
Not allowing the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
Using too much flour will result in a dry texture.
Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise.
Not filling the cupcake liners adequately can lead to flat cupcakes.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
For a stronger strawberry flavor, add a few drops of strawberry extract to the frosting.
Decorate with fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Experiment with different frosting flavors, like cream cheese or chocolate.

FAQs

Can I use different fruits for these cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can substitute strawberries with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the frosting less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, you can add more cream cheese or unsweetened whipped cream to balance the sugar.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost them just before serving for the best texture.

What type of frosting works best?

A strawberry buttercream or cream cheese frosting complements the cupcakes perfectly, but feel free to get creative with flavors!

Do I need to refrigerate the cupcakes?

If topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s best to refrigerate them. Otherwise, they can be kept at room temperature for a few days.

Conclusion

Strawberry cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings the sweetness of summer to any gathering. With their moist texture and vibrant flavor, they are sure to please any palate. Easy to make and beautifully presented, these cupcakes are a must-try for any dessert lover.