Strawberry Cupcakes
Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. These strawberry cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a light and fluffy cake base. Perfect for parties, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are sure to impress. With a creamy strawberry frosting that melts in your mouth, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup butter (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp strawberry puree (for frosting)
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 12 cupcakes. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, while the cooking time is around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cupcake) contains approximately 210 calories, 10g fat, 27g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 15g sugar. This is for one cupcake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat together the butter and powdered sugar, then add strawberry puree until desired consistency is reached.
- Pipe the frosting onto each cupcake and garnish with fresh strawberries.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using coconut flour for a gluten-free option or substituting the butter with applesauce for a healthier twist. You can also use whipped cream instead of frosting for a lighter topping.
Serving and Pairings
These strawberry cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing glass of lemonade. They are perfect for birthday parties, bridal showers, or any festive gathering.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them without frosting for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven baking.
- Using cold ingredients can affect texture; ensure they are at room temperature.
- Not letting cupcakes cool before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
- Skipping the cupcake liners can lead to sticking.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the outcome.
- Opening the oven door too early can cause cupcakes to sink.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different flavored extracts for unique twists.
- Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
- For a fun presentation, decorate with mint leaves alongside strawberries.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
How can I make these cupcakes vegan?
Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
What should I do if my cupcakes sink in the middle?
Sinking can be caused by underbaking or opening the oven door too early. Ensure proper baking time and avoid peeking.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How can I enhance the strawberry flavor?
Using fresh strawberry puree in both the batter and frosting will amplify the strawberry flavor significantly.
Conclusion
These strawberry cupcakes are a delightful combination of sweetness and freshness, perfect for any occasion. With their light texture and creamy frosting, they are sure to be a hit among friends and family. Enjoy your baking adventure and indulge in these delicious treats!
Strawberry Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries pureed
- 1 cup powdered sugar for frosting
- 1/2 cup butter for frosting
- 2 tbsp strawberry puree for frosting
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat together the butter and powdered sugar, then add strawberry puree until desired consistency is reached.
- Pipe the frosting onto each cupcake and garnish with fresh strawberries.
