Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, a perfect blend of light vanilla cupcakes topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:55:18.607Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are inspired by the classic dessert, combining the fluffiness of cupcakes with the sweet and tangy taste of strawberries. Perfect for summer parties or any celebration!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor
Perfectly sweet whipped cream topping

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Strawberry shortcake cupcakes are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be served at a variety of gatherings, from casual family get-togethers to formal celebrations. Their charming presentation makes them a delightful addition to birthday parties, bridal showers, and summer picnics. With the vibrant red of fresh strawberries peeking through the fluffy whipped cream, they are sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.

These cupcakes can also be customized to fit different dietary needs. For those looking for gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring that your guests with dietary restrictions can enjoy this sweet treat. Furthermore, you can experiment with the fruit toppings based on the season, making these cupcakes a year-round favorite.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect light and fluffy texture in your strawberry shortcake cupcakes, it’s essential to cream the butter and sugar properly. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing. Beat the mixture until it becomes pale and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, contributing to a lighter cupcake.

Another key tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients. Mix just until the flour is incorporated, as overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Also, using a toothpick to check for doneness is crucial; it should come out clean without any wet batter clinging to it.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your strawberry shortcake cupcakes are assembled, they are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days, but keep in mind that the freshness of the strawberries may diminish over time. To maintain their delicious flavor, consider adding fresh strawberries just before serving if they will be stored for a while.

For added flair, serve these cupcakes with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful visual element to the presentation. Whether enjoyed as a simple dessert or dressed up for a special occasion, these delightful cupcakes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool the Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Topping

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

Assemble the Cupcakes

Top each cooled cupcake with whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices.

Variations to Try

While the classic strawberry shortcake flavor is a favorite, feel free to get creative with your variations. For instance, you can substitute strawberries with other berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a different flavor profile. Additionally, consider incorporating a layer of lemon curd or a hint of almond extract into the batter for an exciting twist that complements the fruits beautifully.

Another fun variation is to make mini versions of these cupcakes. Use a mini cupcake tin to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or as a sweet snack. They are just the right size for popping in your mouth and can be topped with a variety of fruits and creams for a colorful display.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying sweets like strawberry shortcake cupcakes, moderation is key. Each cupcake contains a blend of wholesome ingredients, including fresh strawberries that provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system.

However, it's essential to be mindful of the sugar content due to the granulated sugar and whipped cream. Consider using natural sweeteners or reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe if you're looking for a lighter option. This way, you can still indulge in these delightful treats while keeping your nutrition in check.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make these cupcakes in advance?

You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance, but it's best to add the toppings just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping or a dairy-free alternative if needed.