Introduction

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes capture the essence of a classic dessert in an easy-to-make, portable form. These moist cupcakes are studded with fresh strawberries and topped with fluffy whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.

Four cupcakes sit closely together on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has three clear layers: the base is a soft, golden sponge cake, the middle layer is a glossy red strawberry jam with small slices of fresh strawberries embedded, and the top layer is a thick swirl of white whipped cream. A large, halved fresh strawberry with visible seeds and green leafy top crowns each cupcake, adding a bright red contrast to the white cream. The details show the cream slightly textured with soft peaks and the moist cake with golden edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
12 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (plus extra for topping)
1 cup whipped cream or cream cheese frosting
Optional: 1/4 cup strawberry jam mixed with 1 teaspoon water for glaze

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 5: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
Step 6: Gently fold the sliced strawberries into the batter.
Step 7: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 8: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: If using a glaze, heat the strawberry jam with water until smooth, then let it cool slightly.
Step 11: Frost each cupcake with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting and top with a fresh strawberry slice.
Step 12: Drizzle the strawberry glaze over the cupcakes if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, macerate the strawberries with a little sugar before folding them into the batter.
Use cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast or whipped cream for a lighter topping.
If fresh strawberries are not available, frozen strawberries can be used but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright citrus note.

Storage

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If they are frosted with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, keep them chilled to maintain freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw completely before frosting.

How to Serve

There are four vanilla cupcakes on a white square plate placed on a white marbled texture. Each cupcake has three layers: the bottom layer is a golden-baked soft cupcake; the middle layer is a glossy red strawberry jam with thin slices of fresh strawberries peeking out; the top layer is a swirl of white whipped cream with a halved fresh strawberry with green leaves on top. The strawberries are bright red and shiny, adding a fresh and juicy look to the cupcakes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes without fresh strawberries?

Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid soggy cupcakes. Alternatively, diced other berries or fruit can be used for a different flavor twist.

What frosting works best with strawberry shortcake cupcakes?

Both whipped cream and cream cheese frosting complement these cupcakes well. Whipped cream offers a light and airy touch, while cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy flavor that pairs nicely with the strawberries.