If you are looking for a dessert that brings bright bursts of fruity freshness wrapped in soft, fluffy cake, this Strawberry Filled Cupcakes Recipe is an absolute winner. Picture biting into a moist vanilla cupcake that hides a luscious, homemade strawberry filling in its center, all topped with creamy, dreamy frosting. These cupcakes combine the nostalgic comfort of classic vanilla cake with the vibrant, natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, making each bite feel like a mini celebration. Whether for a birthday, a special occasion, or just because, these cupcakes delight every time and are surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color, bringing this cupcake to life with freshness and sweetness. From the buttery softness of the cake to the tangy brightness of the strawberry filling, every component highlights the strawberries beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the tender structure for the cupcakes.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise to light perfection.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich moisture and a velvety crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcake batter evenly.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped: The star ingredient, for that juicy, fresh filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberry filling beautifully.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens and balances the strawberry flavor in the filling.
- 1 tsp cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling to hold perfectly inside the cupcakes.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to spreadable perfection.
- 2 tbsp milk: Adjusts frosting texture for a smooth finish.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a lovely fragrance and flavor to the frosting.
How to Make Strawberry Filled Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is the perfect temperature when the batter is ready. Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners, which help keep the cupcakes moist and make cleanup easier. This setup step is essential to get those evenly baked, soft cupcakes.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the raising agent and seasoning throughout the batter, so your cupcakes rise beautifully and taste balanced.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is key for achieving a tender and soft crumb in the cupcake.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them without breaking the batter, then stir in the vanilla extract for that irresistible, warm flavor.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Slowly add the dry flour mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, alternating them and starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix just until combined — overmixing can make the cupcakes tough, so aim for a smooth but delicate batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to give them room to rise. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cupcakes are ready. Remove and let them cool completely before filling.
Step 7: Make the Strawberry Filling
While the cupcakes cool, prepare your fresh strawberry filling by cooking chopped strawberries with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens — this vibrant filling brings a juicy, fresh surprise inside each cupcake.
Step 8: Fill the Cupcakes
Carefully core each cupcake by removing a small center portion. Spoon the cooled strawberry filling into the hollow, then gently place the removed cupcake tops back, sealing that fruity treasure inside.
Step 9: Make and Apply the Frosting
Beat softened butter until completely smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well to avoid lumps. Mix in milk and vanilla extract until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Frost each cupcake generously, and if you like, garnish with fresh strawberry slices for extra charm.
How to Serve Strawberry Filled Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberry slices, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a few small mint leaves make lovely garnishes that add visual appeal and a hint of freshness to each beautifully frosted cupcake.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience. A cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee also complements their sweetness perfectly, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand decorated with edible flowers or serve them in cute cupcake wrappers. You can also drizzle a little melted white chocolate over the frosting for an elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure they are completely cool before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
These strawberry filled cupcakes freeze really well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the cupcakes warm, microwave them for about 15 seconds after removing from the fridge. Avoid overheating to maintain the cupcake’s moist texture and prevent the filling from becoming too runny.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute fresh with frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess water before cooking the filling to avoid a watery texture.
How do I prevent the strawberry filling from leaking out?
Carefully core the cupcakes and fill them with cooled, thickened strawberry filling. Using cornstarch to thicken helps the filling stay in place, and replacing the cupcake tops snugly seals the filling inside.
Can I make these cupcakes vegan?
With some ingredient substitutions like using plant-based butter, a vegan egg replacer, and non-dairy milk, these cupcakes can certainly be adapted for a vegan diet, though the texture may vary slightly.
What frosting works best with this recipe?
The classic buttercream frosting in this recipe complements the strawberry filling perfectly, but cream cheese frosting or whipped cream frosting also pair wonderfully if you want to mix it up.
How far ahead can I make these cupcakes?
You can bake the cupcakes and prepare the filling a day in advance, storing both separately. Assemble and frost the cupcakes on the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of homemade treats, and this Strawberry Filled Cupcakes Recipe is a shining example of that happiness baked right into every bite. Rich, fluffy cake paired with sweet, natural strawberry filling and luscious frosting is sure to become a beloved favorite. I can’t wait for you to try making this recipe and share those smiles it brings to your table!
