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, hulled and sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in these fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, bursting with fresh strawberry flavor and topped with whipped cream.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T17:45:19.449Z

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. Perfect for summer gatherings or celebrations, each cupcake is moist and filled with fresh strawberries, making every bite a taste of sunshine.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy vanilla cupcakes paired with sweet, juicy strawberries
Light and airy whipped cream frosting that complements the flavors
A beautiful and delicious treat for any occasion

      

What Makes Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes Special?

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These cupcakes offer a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness, making them a joyful treat for any occasion. With their fluffy texture and the burst of juicy strawberries, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Each bite is a celebration of summer, bringing memories of picnics and garden parties to life.

The combination of fluffy vanilla cupcakes, luscious strawberries, and airy whipped cream creates a delightful layering of flavors and textures. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. The whipped cream frosting adds a lightness that complements the richness of the cupcake base, making it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are versatile enough to be served at various events, from birthdays to bridal showers. Their vibrant appearance and delicious flavor make them a centerpiece at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or celebrating a special milestone, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

Additionally, they are easy to transport, making them ideal for potlucks and picnics. Simply pack them in a cupcake carrier, and you’re ready to share a homemade treat that everyone will love. The charming presentation of these cupcakes also adds an element of festivity, elevating your dessert table effortlessly.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, make sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the filling. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes, so selecting the best berries is crucial. You can also experiment with different varieties of strawberries to find your favorite taste profile.

Another tip is to ensure your butter is adequately softened before creaming it with sugar. This step is vital for achieving that light and fluffy texture in your cupcakes. If you forget to take your butter out of the fridge, a quick 10-second microwave blast will help soften it without melting.

Lastly, allow the cupcakes to cool completely before filling and frosting them. This prevents the whipped cream from melting and ensures your strawberry filling stays intact, making for a beautifully assembled cupcake.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth baking process.

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 Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Whipped Cream Frosting

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat your oven and prepare your cupcake pan before starting.

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Cupcake Batter

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until incorporated.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Prepare the Strawberry Filling

In a small bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

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

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife to cut a cone shape from the center of each cupcake. Fill the cavity with the strawberry mixture and top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!

Storing Your Cupcakes

To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days, though they are best enjoyed within the first day or two after making them. If you anticipate leftovers, consider filling and frosting only the number of cupcakes you plan to serve, as the strawberries can cause the cupcakes to become soggy over time.

If you need to make the cupcakes in advance, you can bake them ahead of time and freeze them unfilled. When you're ready to serve, thaw them and prepare the strawberry filling and whipped cream frosting. This way, you can enjoy the delightful taste of freshly made cupcakes without the stress of last-minute baking.

Variations to Try

While the classic strawberry filling is undeniably delicious, you can also experiment with different fruits. Fresh raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries can offer a delightful twist on the traditional flavor. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tartness, allowing you to customize the cupcakes to your taste.

For a gourmet touch, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest to the whipped cream frosting. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing that pairs beautifully with the strawberries. You can also incorporate a hint of almond extract into the batter for a subtle nutty flavor that complements the vanilla.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking, and you’ll achieve fluffy results similar to the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of fresh strawberries?

You can use frozen strawberries, but thaw them and drain excess liquid before using.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store leftover cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache would also pair well with these cupcakes.