Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings the taste of summer right to your kitchen. These cupcakes are incredibly soft and moist, made with both fresh and freeze-dried strawberries, giving them a unique flavor profile. Topped with luscious strawberry cream cheese frosting, they are perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration. Their vibrant color and delicious taste make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, whipping up these cupcakes is a breeze.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh and freeze-dried strawberries ensures every bite is packed with fruity goodness.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual afternoon snack, these cupcakes fit right in.
• Beautiful Presentation: Their bright pink hue and creamy frosting make them visually appealing as well.
• Delightfully Moist Texture: Thanks to the mix of flours and buttermilk, these cupcakes are soft and tender, creating an irresistible texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cupcake pan
• Cupcake liners

Why These Tools Matter

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a light batter.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in delicate ingredients without deflating the batter.
• Cupcake pan: Ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your cupcakes.

Ingredients

These strawberry cupcakes are super soft and moist cupcakes. The cupcakes have both fresh strawberries and freeze-dried strawberries. It is topped with strawberry cream cheese frosting.

For the Cupcakes

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup Cake flour
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 TBSP Oil (canola or vegetable)
• 1 cup White granulated sugar
• 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 1 oz Freeze dried strawberries
• 1 cup Lightly pureed strawberries
• 1 tsp White granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup Buttermilk (room temperature)

For the Frosting

• 1 cup Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 8 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3 cups Powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup Ground freeze dried strawberries (ground the strawberries then measure)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

For Topping

• 6 Strawberries (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tsp White granulated sugar

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners to prepare for the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cake flour
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Canola oil
3. Granulated sugar

Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in:
1. Large eggs
2. Pure vanilla extract

Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Strawberries

Gently fold in:
1. Lightly pureed strawberries
2. Freeze dried strawberries

Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in preheated oven for 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Make Frosting

In a large bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Cream cheese

Add powdered sugar gradually until fluffy. Mix in ground freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with strawberry cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or spatula. Top each cupcake with small pieces of fresh strawberries sprinkled lightly with granulated sugar.

Enjoy your delicious Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes!

How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

Serving fresh strawberry cupcakes is a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. Their moist texture and sweet flavor make them a favorite among guests. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious treats.

At a Birthday Party

• Colorful Presentation: Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand with colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cupcakes in clear plastic and tie with a ribbon for guests to take home.

As a Summer Dessert

• Picnic Treats: Pack the cupcakes in a picnic basket along with fresh fruits for an outdoor gathering.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair the cupcakes with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

During Tea Time

• Elegant Platter: Serve on fine china alongside tea or coffee for an elegant afternoon tea experience.
• Garnish with Mint: Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a refreshing touch.

For Special Celebrations

• Theme Decorations: Customize decorations based on the celebration theme using edible toppers that match the occasion.
• With Berries on Top: Top each cupcake with fresh strawberries or blueberries for added flavor and color.

How to Perfect Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

Perfecting your fresh strawberry cupcakes ensures they turn out soft, moist, and bursting with flavor. Follow these tips to elevate your baking game.

• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Always use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and moisture.
• Bold Temperature Check: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this promotes better emulsification.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Bold Baking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on your cupcakes while baking; start checking around 15 minutes to prevent overbaking.
• Bold Frosting Consistency: Whip your cream cheese frosting until light and fluffy for easy spreading and a smoother finish.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

Pairing side dishes with your fresh strawberry cupcakes can enhance their appeal and provide variety. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Bold Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like melons, berries, and citrus provides freshness that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
2. Bold Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and additional strawberries for a creamy contrast that balances flavors.
3. Bold Lemonade: Refreshing homemade lemonade pairs perfectly, providing a zesty kick against the sweet cupcake backdrop.
4. Bold Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create savory bites that contrast the sweet dessert.
5. Bold Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Enhance your strawberry theme by serving chocolate-dipped strawberries alongside the cupcakes.
6. Bold Mini Quiches: Savory mini quiches can add heartiness to your spread while balancing out sweetness from the cupcakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold ingredients can lead to dense cupcakes. Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can create tough cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a light and airy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven baking. Preheat your oven fully before placing your cupcakes inside for consistent results.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale flour can ruin your cupcakes. Check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep away from strong odors to maintain flavor integrity.

Freezing Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cupcakes for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a covered pan on low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes?

To make these delicious cupcakes, follow the recipe that combines fresh strawberries with both pureed and freeze-dried strawberries, topped with strawberry cream cheese frosting.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.

How long do Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes last?

Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I customize Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like lemon zest or swap out the frosting for whipped cream or chocolate ganache based on your preference.

What is the best way to frost Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes?

For a beautiful presentation, use a piping bag with a star tip to create swirls of frosting on top of each cupcake.

Conclusion

Fresh Strawberry Cupcakes are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their soft, moist texture combined with fruity sweetness makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different toppings or flavors, making each batch uniquely yours! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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