If you have a soft spot for fruity desserts that bring smiles all around, then the Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe will soon become your new favorite go-to. These light and fluffy cupcakes burst with real strawberry flavor and are perfectly complemented by a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that’s just sweet enough to feel indulgent. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon treat, a festive birthday delight, or a nostalgic moment with friends, this recipe wraps up charm and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients set the foundation for the magic in this recipe. Each component plays its part: the strawberries bring natural sweetness and vibrant pink hues, while the cream cheese frosting adds a velvety richness that balances the cupcake’s crumb.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup softened for batter): Helps create a tender crumb with a buttery flavor.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cupcakes evenly and helps them rise.
- Large eggs (3): Provide structure and moisture to keep cupcakes soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, comforting aroma and depth.
- Strawberry extract (1 teaspoon): Boosts the fresh strawberry flavor in the cake.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
- Vegetable oil (1/4 cup): Contributes extra moisture so cupcakes stay tender.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Ensures the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay light.
- Fine sea salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Gives the cupcakes their classic structure.
- Finely chopped fresh strawberries (1 cup): Infuse natural fruity bursts and moist pockets throughout.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces softened): The star in the frosting, delivering tang and creaminess.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup softened for frosting): Adds richness and smoothness to the icing.
- Strawberry extract (1 teaspoon for frosting): Enhances the strawberry notes in the frosting layer.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon for frosting): Rounds out the frosting’s flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar (3 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect spreadable texture.
- Pink food coloring (optional): Gives a pretty, festive touch to the frosting color.
How to Make Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—this trick is key for cupcakes with a tender crumb. Beat in eggs one at a time to ensure the mixture emulsifies smoothly, then add both vanilla and strawberry extracts for that signature fruity aroma.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning throughout the cupcake batter, ensuring every bite rises consistently and tastes balanced.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. This method helps maintain a light texture while incorporating everything smoothly. Stir in vegetable oil for extra moisture and gently fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries so they stay juicy and don’t sink to the bottom.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners and spoon the batter evenly to fill about two-thirds of each cup. Pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before adding frosting.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While cupcakes cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Add in powdered sugar gradually to avoid a sugar cloud, then stir in strawberry and vanilla extracts. Mix until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable, and add a few drops of pink food coloring if you want to amplify that strawberry-inspired look.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate
Use a piping bag or a knife to generously frost each cooled cupcake. This finishing touch is what makes the cupcake indulgent and irresistible, with a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet, fruity cake beneath.
How to Serve Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Add fresh strawberry halves on top of your frosted cupcakes for a fresh bite that mirrors the strawberry flavor inside. You can also sprinkle some edible glitter or pink sanding sugar for a little extra sparkle that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve your strawberry cupcakes alongside cold glasses of milk, freshly brewed tea, or a fruity lemonade. These beverages complement the sweet and creamy flavors perfectly and make any occasion feel a little cozier.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the cupcakes in a tiered stand for a lovely display at parties, or place each cupcake in a decorative wrapper that matches your event’s theme. For a fun twist, turn the frosting into little strawberry “roses” with a piping tip for a more sophisticated presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for preparing a batch ahead of time.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature before frosting, as freezing the cream cheese frosting may change its texture.
Reheating
If you want a freshly baked warmth, briefly microwave unfrosted cupcakes for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid microwaving once frosted since the cream cheese could melt or separate.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe to avoid excess moisture, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent soggy batter.
Is the strawberry extract necessary?
While optional, the strawberry extract really enhances the overall flavor, making the strawberry taste more intense and aromatic.
How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?
Make sure your cream cheese and butter are well chilled before mixing, and add powdered sugar gradually to reach the perfect thick consistency for spreading or piping.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cream cheese frosting can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature and whip it again before frosting.
What’s the best way to transport these cupcakes?
Use a cupcake carrier or a sturdy box with cupcake inserts to keep the cupcakes secure and prevent the frosting from getting squished during travel.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is such a joy to bake and share. It’s perfect for any day when you want to bring a bit of homemade sweetness and a burst of fresh strawberry flavor to your table. I hope you enjoy making these cupcakes as much as I love eating them!
