Strawberry-filled Cupcakes Recipe -

Strawberry-Filled Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the soft, spongy texture of vanilla cupcakes with the sweet, tangy freshness of strawberries. These cupcakes are perfect for spring and summer occasions, or anytime you want to bring a bit of brightness and joy to your dessert table. The combination of a fluffy vanilla cupcake, a luscious strawberry filling, and a creamy frosting creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether for a birthday party, a picnic, or just a special treat, these cupcakes are sure to impress and delight.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

1 and ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 and ½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk

For the Strawberry Filling:

1 cup diced fresh strawberries
2 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Frosting:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, sift together 1 and ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with ½ cup of milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Once done, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Filling
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of diced fresh strawberries, 2 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries are soft and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the filling to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes and strawberry filling have cooled, use a small knife or a cupcake corer to create a hollow in the center of each cupcake. Fill each hollow with the strawberry filling. Pipe or spread the frosting over the top of the cupcakes, covering the filling.

Cooking Note:

Be careful not to overmix the cupcake batter, as this can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Strawberry-Filled Cupcakes as a delightful dessert at parties, family gatherings, or as a special treat. They are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Tips:

Cupcake Consistency: Ensure your ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for the best texture.
Filling the Cupcakes: Be gentle when coring the cupcakes to avoid breaking them.
Frosting Variations: Feel free to add a little strawberry extract or puree to the frosting for an extra burst of strawberry flavor.

Prep Time:

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 250-300 per cupcake (varies based on the size and specific ingredients used)
Protein: 3-4g per cupcake
Sodium: Varies based on the ingredients used