Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganza

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganza
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I absolutely adore creating desserts that celebrate fresh fruits, and the Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganza is a prime example of that passion. With its fluffy vanilla cupcake base, velvety whipped cream, and a generous bounty of strawberries, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors. I find joy in baking these cupcakes for gatherings, where they never fail to impress. Plus, they come together quite easily, making them an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Let's dive into this indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:17:27.922Z

When I first decided to make these cupcakes, I was inspired by my love for the classic strawberry shortcake. I experimented with different ratios of flour to sugar until I hit the perfect balance, resulting in a cupcake that is incredibly moist and flavorful. It was crucial to use fresh strawberries for maximum sweetness, and I also tried a few different combinations for the whipped cream to achieve a light, airy texture that perfectly complements the cake.

One tip I found invaluable is to chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping your cream. This simple step makes a world of difference, coaxing the cream to whip up beautifully and hold its shape. Now, every time I serve these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganzas, they disappear in minutes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Luscious strawberries in every bite
Fluffy and moist vanilla cupcakes
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

Mastering the Cupcake Texture

Achieving the perfect cupcake texture is crucial for this Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganza. The balance of fat and moisture is key; ensure the butter is softened but not melted, as this allows for proper aeration during mixing. Overmixing can create a dense texture, so combine the ingredients just until they’re incorporated. You should aim for a batter that's smooth with no lumps but still retains a bit of thickness. This technique results in fluffy, moist cupcakes that provide the ideal base for our luscious toppings.

Make sure to check your cupcakes at the lower end of the baking time, around 18 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. Overbaking will lead to dry cupcakes. Allowing them to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack helps to maintain their moisture and prevents them from sticking.

Whipped Cream Techniques

The whipped cream is the star of this dessert, and there are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly airy and stable. Start by chilling your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes before whipping the cream. This keeps the cream cold, helping it whip up faster and reach stiff peaks without deflating. Be careful not to overwhip; you want it to hold its shape but still be smooth. If it starts to turn grainy or separates, you've gone too far—just add a splash of fresh cream and gently mix to bring it back together.

For a flavor twist, consider infusing the whipped cream with a splash of almond extract or citrus zest. This adds depth and a complementary flavor to the fresh strawberries. Also, using heavy whipping cream with a fat content of 36% or higher will help achieve that stable, luscious texture you want in your topping.

Serving and Storage Tips

These cupcakes are best served the same day they're assembled for maximum freshness. If you're planning to make them ahead, bake and cool the cupcakes a day in advance, storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Prepare the whipped cream and strawberries on the day of serving for the best texture and flavor. As the whipped cream sits, it can lose its structure, so always layer it right before you plan to serve.

If you find yourself with leftover cupcakes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to two days, but be aware that the whipped cream may not hold up as well as fresh cream. A great solution for storing the cupcakes without the cream is to freeze them. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and top with freshly whipped cream and strawberries.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Extravaganza.

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have everything organized before you begin baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a successful bake.

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Batter

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add butter, eggs, vanilla, and milk, then mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, slice them in half horizontally. Layer whipped cream and strawberries between the halves, then top with more whipped cream and a whole strawberry.

Enjoy your delightful cupcakes with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of chocolate ganache over the whipped cream topping.

Ingredient Alternatives

Don't have enough fresh strawberries? You can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist. Consider using diced peaches or even a fruit compote for a different flavor profile. If you're following a gluten-free diet, a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix can often replace the all-purpose flour, allowing you to enjoy these cupcakes without compromising on taste or texture.

For a dairy-free version, swap out the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and choose coconut cream for the whipped topping. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it can lead to a deliciously unique alternative.

Variations and Additions

Consider adding a layer of lemon curd in between the cupcake layers for a zesty contrast to the sweetness. This can elevate the flavor profile significantly and add a refreshing touch. You might also sprinkle in some finely chopped mint in the whipped cream for a burst of freshness that complements the strawberries beautifully.

If you're looking to add a little decadence, a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top could bring a rich depth to the flavors. Simply melt dark chocolate with a bit of cream and drizzle it over the assembled cupcakes before serving for that extra special touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture.

→ How can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?

You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and assemble them on the day you plan to serve them.

→ What should I do if my whipped cream is too soft?

Try chilling your mixing bowl and beaters again, and whip until it reaches the desired consistency.

→ Can I use a different fruit?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches.