Strawberry Surprise Cupcakes: A Sweet Delight
When it comes to sweet treats, there's something truly magical about cupcakes! These Strawberry Surprise Cupcakes have a delightful hidden strawberry center that will make anyone smile when they take their first bite. Topped off with luscious buttercream frosting, they’re perfect for any celebration or just to brighten your day. Trust me, once you make these, your friends and family will be coming back for more!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Let’s talk about why these Strawberry Surprise Cupcakes are an absolute must-try! The combination of a soft, buttery cupcake with a juicy strawberry hidden in the center is simply irresistible. Each bite releases the sweet essence of strawberry, making them a refreshing treat on any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros! These cupcakes are not only family-friendly but also a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen. They’ll love discovering the sweet surprise nestled inside!
Ingredients
For the cupcakes:
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 150g granulated sugar
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 120ml whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 12 fresh strawberries, hulled
For the buttercream:
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 300g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoon strawberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Necessary Tools
- Cupcake tray and liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Toothpick
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
No fresh strawberries? No problem! You can use frozen strawberries or even blueberry or raspberry puree for a different fruity surprise. Feel free to add a hint of lemon zest to the batter to elevate the flavor. For a deeper flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. The possibilities are endless!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line your cupcake tray with liners. This is the first step to cupcake heaven!
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt, and set this aside. A little bit of organization goes a long way!
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this is where the magic begins!
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Your kitchen will start to smell delightful!
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with the whole milk until just combined. Do not overmix!
6. Spoon the batter into each cupcake liner, filling them halfway. This is where the surprise comes in! Place a strawberry right in the center and then cover it with more batter until they are about ¾ full.
7. Bake these beauties in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.
8. For the buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy, then slowly add the powdered sugar while mixing. Stir in the strawberry puree and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fluffy!
9. Pipe or spread the buttercream generously on top of the cooled cupcakes. Enjoy every scrumptious bite!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cupcakes with a refreshing glass of lemonade or an afternoon tea for a charming treat. They also make a great addition to birthday parties, picnics, or cozy family gatherings!
Pro Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip the cooling step before frosting—warm cupcakes can melt the buttercream!
- Experiment with different fruit fillings for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness. If you want to reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds—this will revive that fresh-baked warmth!
FAQ Section
- *Can I use cupcake mix instead?* Yes, you can use any pre-made cupcake mix. Just add the strawberries into the mix before baking for a fun surprise!
- *Can I freeze these cupcakes?* Absolutely! Frosted or unfrosted, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well.
- *What can I use instead of butter for the frosting?* Try using shortening or coconut oil as a substitute, but keep in mind that the flavor will change.
Conclusion
In summary, these Strawberry Surprise Cupcakes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also simple to make! With their hidden strawberry center and creamy frosting, they bring joy to any occasion. I’d love to hear how your cupcakes turn out – feel free to leave a review or tag us in your pictures on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per cupcake:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Sugar: 18g
Enjoy baking and indulge in the deliciousness of Strawberry Surprise Cupcakes!
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