Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup milk; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

Delight in the summery sweetness of Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, a delightful treat that combines fluffy vanilla cupcakes with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:50:19.760Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are the perfect dessert to celebrate warm days and special occasions. Each cupcake is a light, fluffy delight that embodies the essence of summer with every bite.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
Light and fluffy texture with each bite
Perfectly portioned for individual servings

      

The Perfect Summer Treat

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are not just any ordinary dessert; they encapsulate the essence of summer in every bite. With the vibrant color and natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, these cupcakes bring a taste of sunshine to your palate. Ideal for picnics, birthday parties, or simply enjoying a sunny day on the porch, they are sure to impress friends and family alike. Each cupcake is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

These cupcakes are light yet satisfying, offering a delightful balance between richness and freshness. The soft, fluffy vanilla cupcake serves as the ideal base for the sweet strawberry filling and airy whipped cream topping. When you bite into one of these cupcakes, you experience a lovely contrast between the tender crumb of the cake and the juicy burst of strawberries. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent while still being light enough to enjoy on warm summer days.

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh strawberries in this recipe elevates the flavor profile to new heights. While frozen strawberries can be convenient, nothing quite compares to the taste and texture of fresh berries. Their natural sweetness and vibrant color not only enhance the visual appeal of your cupcakes but also provide a deliciously juicy filling that complements the vanilla cake perfectly. Fresh ingredients truly make all the difference in achieving that bakery-quality flavor at home.

Additionally, the quality of your whipped cream topping can significantly impact the overall taste of your cupcakes. Making your whipped cream from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and flavor, ensuring a light and airy topping that doesn't overshadow the other elements. This handmade touch adds a personal, gourmet flair to your dessert, making every bite more enjoyable and memorable.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are delightful on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider garnishing with mint leaves for a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. You can also drizzle a balsamic reduction over the whipped cream for a sophisticated twist that balances sweetness with tang. For a fun variation, try swapping out strawberries for other seasonal fruits like peaches or blueberries, adjusting the sugar in the filling as needed to accommodate their sweetness.

If you're looking to make these cupcakes ahead of time, you can prepare the cupcakes and strawberry filling a day in advance. Just assemble them with whipped cream shortly before serving to maintain the light texture. This makes them an excellent option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the occasion without spending all your time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

For the Strawberry Filling

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream Topping

1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk, until well combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Fill each liner about two-thirds full with batter.

Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

While the cupcakes are baking, combine the chopped strawberries and sugar in a bowl. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a small knife to cut a hole in the center of each cupcake. Fill the hole with the strawberry mixture and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!

Storage Tips

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them to extend their shelf life. However, be aware that the whipped cream may lose some of its fluffiness when stored in the fridge. For the best taste and texture, it's recommended to assemble the cupcakes shortly before serving.

If you have leftover strawberry filling, it can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Use it as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or even ice cream, allowing you to enjoy the bright flavors long after the cupcakes are gone.

Nutritional Information

While these cupcakes are a treat, it's good to be aware of their nutritional content. Each cupcake contains a balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugar, along with fats from the butter and cream. The inclusion of fresh strawberries adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a slightly healthier indulgence compared to other desserts.

If you're looking to make these cupcakes a bit healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or using a sugar substitute in the strawberry filling. Keep in mind that these adjustments may alter the texture and flavor slightly, but can provide a guilt-free option for those watching their intake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How should I store the cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and assemble them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping if you're looking for a non-dairy option.