Introduction
Strawberry cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the lightness of cake to create a perfect dessert for any occasion. This recipe incorporates both a cake mix and fresh strawberries for added flavor and texture. Top them off with a creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting for an irresistible finish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Strawberry Cupcakes:
15.25 ounces white cake mix (1 box)
3 ounces Strawberry Jell-O mix (1 small box)
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup water
4 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup chopped strawberries (thawed and drained if frozen)
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
8 strawberries, washed, hulled, dried, and finely minced or puréed (enough to yield 4 tablespoons)
7 cups powdered sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cupcakes
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Cupcakes:
– Preheat the oven to 325°F and adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
– Spray two cupcake tins with nonstick baking spray or line with paper liners.
– In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, combine the cake mix, Jell-O mix, oil, and water until smooth and the dry ingredients are fully incorporated (about 2 minutes).
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition just until incorporated.
– Fold in the chopped strawberries.
– Divide the batter equally among the prepared cupcake tins, filling each well ¾ full.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
– Transfer the cupcake tins to a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes, then remove the cupcakes from the tins to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
– In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Add 3 tablespoons of the minced strawberries to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth.
– Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated and the frosting reaches the desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add the remaining tablespoon of minced strawberries; if too thin, add more powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
– Add the lemon zest and beat until incorporated.
Assemble the Cupcakes:
– Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag fitted with the tip of your choice or a knife to frost the cupcakes.
– Optionally, top each cupcake with a halved fresh strawberry.
– Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients:
– Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Frosting Consistency:
– Adjust frosting thickness using more powdered sugar for a stiffer consistency or additional strawberry purée for a softer texture.
Storage:
– Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Frosting can be made ahead and stored separately for easier assembly later.
Fresh Strawberries:
– Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation.
Baking Time:
– Keep an eye on the cupcakes as baking times may vary based on oven accuracy. Ensure to test for doneness with a toothpick.
Cook techniques
Mixing
Using a hand mixer, combine the cake mix, Jell-O mix, vegetable oil, and water until smooth and fully incorporated. Ensure to mix for about 2 minutes for an even batter.
Egg Incorporation
Add the eggs one at a time to the batter, mixing just until each egg is incorporated. This helps maintain the structure and aeration of the batter.
Folding
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries to the batter. Use a spatula to incorporate without deflating the batter.
Baking
Bake the cupcakes at 325°F until a toothpick comes out clean. The ideal baking time is between 12-15 minutes.
Cooling
Let the cupcakes cool in the tins for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
Frosting Preparation
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain for a creamy frosting consistency.
Adjusting Frosting Consistency
Gradually add powdered sugar to reach the desired thickness. Adjust with minced strawberries and additional powdered sugar as needed for the right texture.
Frosting Application
Use a piping bag or a knife to spread the frosting on completely cooled cupcakes, allowing for a decorative finish.
Decoration
Optionally add a half strawberry on top of each cupcake for an aesthetic touch.
FAQ
Can I use another type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mixes, keeping in mind that it may alter the final taste.
Do I need to use fresh strawberries?
While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available, ensuring they are drained properly.
How can I store the cupcakes?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Make sure they are in an airtight container.
How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, they are done baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you need a substitution.
Conclusion
The Strawberry Cupcakes topped with Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat that combines the sweet freshness of strawberries with a rich, creamy frosting. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends with their vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes
Substitute the white cake mix with chocolate cake mix and add cocoa powder for a rich flavor. Pair with a chocolate cream cheese frosting.
Lemon Strawberry Cupcakes
Incorporate lemon zest into the cupcake batter and use lemon juice in the frosting for a refreshing citrus twist.
Vanilla Almond Strawberry Cupcakes
Add almond extract to the cupcake batter and almond slivers on top of the frosting for a nutty flavor combination.
Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Layer whipped cream and sliced strawberries between the cupcake and frosting for a strawberry shortcake experience.
Mixed Berry Cupcakes
Combine strawberries with raspberries and blueberries in the batter for a mixed berry twist, and use a berry blend in the frosting.
