Strawberry milkshake cupcakes blend the delightful flavors of fresh strawberries, creamy frosting, and moist cake into a sweet, playful dessert. Each bite transports you back to summer days with a refreshing taste that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these cupcakes are the perfect choice.
Why We Love This Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
Strawberry milkshake cupcakes win hearts with their charming presentation and burst of flavor. The natural sweetness of strawberries combined with a delightful buttercream frosting makes every cupcake a cheerful treat. You can create a nostalgic experience with their milkshake-inspired look, complete with vibrant pink hues and decorative toppings. They easily fit any occasion—from birthday celebrations to casual get-togethers. Plus, they are relatively simple to make, providing an accessible way for both novice and experienced bakers to impress their guests.
Ingredients for Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- ½ cup fresh strawberries, chopped (for filling)
- Red food coloring (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard cupcake pan with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the pureed strawberries and add a few drops of red food coloring if a brighter pink shade is desired.
- Carefully spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, fill each cupcake with a small amount of chopped fresh strawberries.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter for the frosting until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with a tablespoon of milk until you reach the desired frosting consistency.
- Mix in additional pureed strawberries for flavor and coloring. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the strawberry buttercream.
How to Serve Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
Serving strawberry milkshake cupcakes can elevate any gathering, making them fun and memorable. Place each cupcake on a decorative plate or a colorful cupcake stand for an irresistible display. You can enhance your platter with fresh strawberries around the cupcakes, giving a vibrant touch. Consider adding whipped cream and a cherry on top of each cupcake for an extra special treat that nods to ice cream sundaes.
For a themed party, serve these cupcakes alongside milkshakes or other strawberry-flavored desserts to create a cohesive menu. Pair them with light, refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea to balance out the sweetness. Don’t forget to provide napkins for these frosted delights, as they can be a little messy but totally worth it! For a whimsical touch, use fun cupcake toppers for birthdays or celebrations. Serving these delightful treats at a picnic or outdoor event can add to the joy of the day.
Expert Tips for Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
To achieve the best strawberry milkshake cupcakes, start with fresh ingredients. Use ripe strawberries for pureeing, as they contribute significantly to the flavor. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing, creating a light and fluffy batter. Avoid overmixing the cake batter; incorporate dry and wet ingredients just until blended to prevent dense cupcakes.
For an enhanced strawberry flavor, try reserving some of the pureed strawberries and folding them into the frosting. Adjust the amount of sugar in your frosting to suit your taste; with fruits, a little less sugar can create a well-rounded sweetness.
Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cupcakes as they bake. To check for doneness, use a toothpick—when it comes out clean, it’s time to take them out. For the frosting, ensure that the consistency suits your spreading or piping needs. Adding more milk will yield a thinner frosting, while more powdered sugar will thicken it. Using a piping bag can create beautiful designs on your cupcakes, adding a professional touch.
How to Store Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
To keep your strawberry milkshake cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly warm or humid climate, consider refrigerating them to maintain their freshness. You can use plastic wrap or place them in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
If you want to keep them for a longer period, freeze the cupcakes without frosting. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last in the freezer for a couple of months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and frost as desired.
Frosted cupcakes can also be frozen, but it’s best to do this without any toppings or decorations to preserve their appearance. Be cautious to avoid freezer burn by storing them properly. Enjoying these delightful treats fresh ensures the best flavor and texture.
Variations of Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
There are countless ways to play with strawberry milkshake cupcakes to suit your preferences and occasions. For a chocolate twist, mix cocoa powder into the batter for chocolate strawberry cupcakes. You can create a strawberry banana version by adding mashed bananas to the batter, enhancing moisture and flavor.
For a festive flair, incorporate sprinkles into the cupcake batter or on top of the frosting. This adds color and fun, making them ideal for celebrations. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a swirl of milkshake-flavored frosting for an extra treat.
Another delightful variation includes making a strawberry cream-filled cupcake. Simply hollow out the center of the cupcake and fill it with strawberry jam or strawberry whipped cream before frosting. For those seeking an indulgence, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top of the frosting for an elegant finish.
Gluten-free cake mix or flour can easily substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy these fluffy delights. By experimenting with different flavors and textures, you can make strawberry milkshake cupcakes uniquely yours.
FAQ about Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes
What are strawberry milkshake cupcakes?
Strawberry milkshake cupcakes are delightful baked treats that combine the flavors of fresh strawberries and milkshakes, featuring a moist cake and creamy frosting.
How do I make the frosting for strawberry milkshake cupcakes?
For the frosting, simply beat softened butter with powdered sugar and strawberry puree until fluffy. Adjust the consistency with milk for spreading or piping.
Can I use frozen strawberries in strawberry milkshake cupcakes?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before incorporating them into the batter or frosting.
What can I substitute for eggs in strawberry milkshake cupcakes?
You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
How long can strawberry milkshake cupcakes be stored?
You can store strawberry milkshake cupcakes at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months without frosting.