Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes Recipe
These Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes capture the nostalgic flavor of a classic strawberry milkshake in a moist, fluffy cupcake topped with rich strawberry buttercream. Made with fresh strawberry puree and a perfect balance of sweetness, these cupcakes are a delightful treat perfect for summer gatherings, celebrations, or any occasion when you want a fruity, nostalgic dessert with a creamy frosting.
- Author: Bella
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
For the Cupcake Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, pureed
For the Strawberry Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup strawberry puree
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to get ready for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which creates a tender cupcake crumb.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly to incorporate moisture and flavor in the batter.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternating with the milk and fresh strawberry puree, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, to create a smooth, homogenous cupcake batter.
- Fill the Liners: Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove and allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make Strawberry Buttercream: Beat the softened butter in a bowl until creamy using a mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Puree and Flavoring: Incorporate the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the buttercream, continuing to beat until light and fluffy, creating a well-balanced sweet and fruity frosting.
- Frost Cupcakes: Use a pastry bag or knife to spread or pipe the strawberry buttercream on the cooled cupcakes, creating decorative swirls or designs.
- Decorate (Optional): Garnish with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles to elevate the presentation and add texture and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness in both the cupcake and buttercream.
- If you want a healthier version, substitute part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup and consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for extra fiber.
- Make sure the butter is softened (but not melted) before creaming to get a fluffy cupcake texture and smooth buttercream frosting.
- Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
- Try variations such as adding bananas for a "Banana Strawberry Milkshake" flavor, cocoa powder for a chocolate twist, or make a vegan version by replacing egg with flaxseed meal and using plant-based milk and oils.
Keywords: strawberry milkshake cupcakes, strawberry cupcakes, strawberry buttercream, summer cupcakes, fruity cupcakes, homemade cupcakes