The aroma of freshly baked cupcakes wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat! Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Moist Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful treat that adds a touch of summer to any occasion. These cupcakes are not just easy to make, they’re also filled with a luscious homemade strawberry jam that elevates them to something truly special. With their airy, fluffy texture and a creamy, tangy frosting, they become an instant crowd-pleaser at gatherings or a sweet indulgence for yourself. Best of all, they can be whipped up in no time, ensuring you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the moments that matter. Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure?
Why are Strawberry Cupcakes So Irresistible?
Homemade Freshness: These cupcakes bring a sweet, summer flavor to your table with juicy strawberries and homemade jam. Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have delicious treats ready in no time. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties, they’re sure to impress friends and family. Creamy Indulgence: Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite is a delightful experience. Versatile Flavors: Feel free to swap in other berries or try a vanilla buttercream for a delightful twist! Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or just craving a sweet indulgence, these Moist Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting will certainly become a favorite!
Strawberry Cupcake Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds natural sweetness and flavor; quartered berries yield the best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and moisture; feel free to reduce the amount in the frosting for a lighter taste.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the sweetness of the jam and enhances the strawberry flavor; use fresh lemon juice for the best outcome.
• Cake Flour – Ensures a light, fluffy cupcake texture; all-purpose flour can be used but may make them denser.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Both are necessary for achieving a light rise in the cupcakes.
• Salt – Elevates flavors, enhancing the overall sweetness of these delicious strawberry cupcakes.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened for a fluffy batter.
• Egg Whites – Creates a lighter cupcake structure without added fat from yolks.
• Vanilla Extract – Offers depth of flavor; pure extract is highly recommended.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the cupcakes moist; full-fat is best, but substitute with regular milk and lemon juice if needed.
For the Strawberry Jam Filling
• Homemade Strawberry Jam – Bursting with flavor, this jam elevates your cupcakes; simmer fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice until thick.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The base of the frosting, adding tanginess and creaminess; use cold cheese for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust the quantity to achieve the desired sweetness.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries – Maximizes strawberry flavor in the frosting; avoid fresh strawberries here, as they do not work the same way.
These scrumptious Strawberry Cupcakes filled with homemade jam and topped with creamy frosting are a delightful twist on the classic dessert!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moist Strawberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prepare Strawberry Jam
In a medium saucepan, combine quartered fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 15-17 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let the jam cool completely before using it as the delicious filling for your strawberry cupcakes.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure to sift the flour for a lighter texture in your Moist Strawberry Cupcakes. Set the dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, ensuring you have everything ready for a smooth batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
Using a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add in the egg whites and vanilla extract, mixing until completely incorporated and smooth. This creamy base is essential for achieving fluffy cupcakes.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined; take care not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick. This careful combination is key to your tender, moist strawberry cupcakes.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cupcake tin with liners and fill each one approximately 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Make Frosting
To prepare the cream cheese frosting, start by beating the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually mix in cold cream cheese, and continue to beat until smooth. Slowly add powdered sugar and ground freeze-dried strawberries until you achieve a light, fluffy texture that’s perfect for generously topping your strawberry cupcakes.
Step 7: Assemble Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a sharp knife or cupcake corer to hollow out the centers. Fill each cupcake with the prepared strawberry jam, allowing the sweet flavors to meld beautifully with the moist cupcakes. Finally, pipe the delicious cream cheese frosting generously on top, creating a delightful topping for your Moist Strawberry Cupcakes.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Cupcakes
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for the best emulsification in your batter.
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Precise Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements, ensuring each cupcake is perfectly sweet and moist without any inconsistencies.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of the desired light, airy texture.
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Cooling Time: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling with jam and frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and maintains its fluffy texture.
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Frosting Chill: If your cream cheese frosting becomes too soft while preparing, refrigerate it briefly to maintain its structure before piping onto the cupcakes.
These expert tips will help you create the most delightful strawberry cupcakes filled with jam and topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Cupcakes
- Room Temperature: Strawberry cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day in a covered container to maintain their soft texture.
- Fridge: To prolong their life, store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bring them back to room temperature before serving for maximum flavor.
- Freezer: You can freeze un-frosted strawberry cupcakes for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag to preserve moisture.
- Reheating: To enjoy frozen cupcakes, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. This helps maintain their delicious, moist texture.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeks! You can prepare the homemade strawberry jam up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the cupcakes up to 24 hours ahead of time—just make sure they are completely cool before transferring them to an airtight container, preventing them from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, core and fill the cupcakes with the chilled jam, and whip up the cream cheese frosting fresh to top them off. This way, you’ll have freshly decorated cupcakes that are just as delicious as if made on the same day!
Variations & Substitutions for Strawberry Cupcakes
Feel free to put your own spin on these cupcakes, making them uniquely yours with delightful twists and swaps!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a light and fluffy version.
- Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with almond milk and use a non-dairy cream cheese for the frosting.
- Fruit Variations: Swap strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for fresh fruit alternatives that still taste amazing. Each option brings a different flavor profile, making it a fun experimentation.
- Flavor Booster: Add a splash of extract, like almond or coconut, to your batter for a refreshing twist that enhances the overall flavor.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce granulated sugar in the cupcakes and frosting for a lighter version without sacrificing taste. Balance texture by adding a bit of unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana.
- Frosting Options: Try a simple vanilla buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting for a classic taste that pairs perfectly with these strawberries.
- Heat Factor: For a spiced version, incorporate a pinch of cayenne or a dash of cinnamon into your batter for an intriguing flavor kick. This surprising twist can elevate your cupcakes to new heights!
These delightful variations might inspire you to create your very own cupcake masterpiece! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not explore ideas like adding a layer of delicious Fried Strawberry Cheesecake with whipped cream for a unique dessert? Whatever you choose, the essence of these strawberry cupcakes will surely shine through!
What to Serve with Moist Strawberry Cupcakes?
Indulging in fluffy, flavorful cupcakes is just the beginning; let’s make your dessert experience complete with these delightful pairings!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens the plate and complements the strawberry theme beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Minty Lemonade: A refreshing mint lemonade offers a zesty contrast, cleansing your palate while enhancing those strawberry notes.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Add an extra layer of luxury with some chocolate-dipped strawberries for a romantic touch—and they look gorgeous on the table!
- Creamy Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds airy richness and pairs wonderfully with the cupcakes’ moist texture.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti provides a delightful texture contrast, inviting you to enjoy the cupcakes sip by sip with coffee or tea.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus Slices: A light, fizzy option that refreshes and highlights the fruity flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those who can’t resist, a warm chocolate sauce drizzle over the frosting creates an irresistible combination.
These pairings will elevate your dessert celebration, enchanting every guest and enhancing the lovely flavors of your strawberry cupcakes!
Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
What type of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely, fresh strawberries are the star of this recipe! Look for firm, ripe strawberries that are vibrant red and free from blemishes. Quarter them for the best flavor in your cupcakes and jam. Avoid overly soft strawberries, as they can alter the texture and sweetness of your treats.
How should I store leftover strawberry cupcakes?
To keep your delicious strawberry cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you want to prolong their shelf life, move them to the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 4 days. Remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavor!
Can I freeze the strawberry cupcakes?
Definitely! You can freeze un-frosted strawberry cupcakes for up to 2 months. To do this, let them cool completely, then wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and allow them to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before frosting.
What should I do if my cupcakes don’t rise?
If your cupcakes don’t rise, it could be due to a couple of factors! First, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; check the expiration dates before using. Next, remember not to overmix your batter, as it can lead to dense cupcakes. Lastly, if your oven is too hot, it can cause the cupcakes to form a crust too quickly, not allowing them to rise properly.
Are these strawberry cupcakes suitable for those with allergies?
These strawberry cupcakes contain common allergens like gluten (from cake flour) and dairy (butter and cream cheese). If you’re making them for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and a dairy-free butter alternative. Always check the labels carefully to ensure they are safe for the specific dietary needs of your guests!
Delicious Strawberry Cupcakes Filled with Jam and Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine quartered fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 15-17 minutes until thickened.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add egg whites and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gently alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the cupcake tin and fill each liner 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 16-18 minutes.
- To make the frosting, beat softened butter until fluffy, add cream cheese, then mix in powdered sugar and freeze-dried strawberries.
- Once cooled, hollow out the centers of the cupcakes, fill with strawberry jam, and top generously with frosting.
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