Strawberries and Cream Cupcakes

Strawberries and Cream Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines fluffy vanilla cupcakes with fresh strawberries and a creamy frosting. Here’s a basic recipe to make these delicious cupcakes:

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup milk

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh whole strawberries, halved or sliced

Instructions:

1. Make the Cupcakes:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer.

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

• Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

• Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

• Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Filling:

• In a small bowl, toss together the finely chopped strawberries and granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate and release their juices.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.

• Beat in the vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Assemble the Cupcakes:

• Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, use a small knife or a cupcake corer to gently remove the centers of each cupcake.

• Fill each cavity with a spoonful of the macerated strawberries.

• Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting over the cupcakes, covering the strawberry filling.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Optionally, garnish each cupcake with a fresh strawberry slice or half.

• Serve and enjoy these delightful Strawberries and Cream Cupcakes!

These cupcakes are perfect for celebrations, parties, or any time you want to indulge in a fruity and creamy dessert treat.