Valentine’s Day Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as sweet as it is festive, these Valentine’s Day Strawberry Cupcakes are your answer! These fluffy, tender cupcakes burst with fresh strawberry flavor and are topped with the dreamiest strawberry frosting—it’s like biting into a little piece of love! Whether you’re making them for a special someone, a Valentine’s Day party, or just to treat yourself, these cupcakes are sure to win hearts with every bite. Trust me, they’re as delicious as they are adorable!

Why You’ll Love Valentine’s Day Strawberry Cupcakes

Here’s why these strawberry cupcakes are perfect for the occasion:

Irresistibly Light and Fluffy

The texture of these cupcakes is beyond dreamy. They’re soft, moist, and just the right amount of fluffy—exactly what you want in a cupcake.

Packed with Strawberry Flavor

Real strawberries in both the cupcake and frosting mean you get the freshest, most natural strawberry flavor that screams Valentine’s Day. Plus, the strawberry frosting is rich, creamy, and totally indulgent.

Perfect for Sharing (or Not!)

These cupcakes are small enough to share, but with how good they are, you might just want to keep them all for yourself. It’s okay, no one will blame you!

A Festive Touch

The pink hue and strawberry theme make these cupcakes perfect for Valentine’s Day. Whether it’s for a classroom treat or a romantic evening, they add that extra bit of love to the occasion.

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients and get baking! Here’s what you’ll need for these sweet strawberry cupcakes:

For the Strawberry Cupcakes:

• Fresh Strawberries: Pureed strawberries add vibrant flavor and moisture to the cupcakes.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cupcakes, giving them structure.
• Baking Powder: To help the cupcakes rise to that perfect light, airy texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: For that rich, tender texture in the cupcakes.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of warmth and complements the strawberry flavor.
• Milk: For a moist, soft crumb.

For the Strawberry Frosting:

• Unsalted Butter: A creamy base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it set nicely.
• Fresh Strawberry Puree: Gives the frosting that vibrant strawberry flavor and soft pink color.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• Heavy Cream: For a smooth, fluffy consistency that’s easy to pipe.

Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below.

Instructions

Let’s bake these sweet treats step-by-step!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. This will ensure your cupcakes don’t stick and they bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

Puree the fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Make the Cupcake Batter

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Finally, fold in the pureed strawberries until the batter is smooth.

Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Spoon the cupcake batter into the prepared cupcake tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full to leave room for rising. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool the Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important because frosting warm cupcakes will cause the frosting to melt.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once all the sugar is incorporated, add the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Continue beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and smooth.

Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the strawberry frosting onto each one. You can use a piping bag with a decorative tip for a beautiful, professional-looking swirl or simply spread the frosting with a spatula for a more rustic finish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

For extra flair, garnish each cupcake with fresh strawberry slices or sprinkles! These little touches add that perfect Valentine’s Day look. Now it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Valentine’s Day Strawberry Cupcakes

These cupcakes are perfect for any Valentine’s Day celebration, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving game:

Serve with Fresh Strawberries

Top each cupcake with a thin slice of fresh strawberry for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Hot Chocolate or Coffee

Enjoy these cupcakes with a warm drink like hot cocoa or a latte for a cozy, sweet treat.

Gift Them in a Cute Box

These cupcakes make the perfect homemade gift! Package them in a cute box with a ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious Valentine’s Day present.

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Strawberries for Best Flavor: While you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch, fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture.
• Let the Cupcakes Cool Completely: Be sure to let the cupcakes cool fully before frosting to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt.
• Add Mix-ins: Want to make them extra special? Fold in a handful of chocolate chips, mini heart-shaped sprinkles, or even crushed freeze-dried strawberries for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake
• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 130mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 29g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

FAQ

Q1: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing to avoid excess moisture in the cupcakes.

Q2: Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and frost them just before serving.

Q3: How do I store leftover cupcakes?
A3: Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have extra frosting, store it in the fridge and re-whip before using it.

Q4: Can I use a different type of frosting?
A4: Of course! You can use buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or even whipped cream if you prefer something lighter.

Q5: How can I make the frosting firmer?
A5: If your frosting is too soft, add more powdered sugar, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Q6: Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
A6: Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and your cupcakes will be gluten-free.

Q7: How do I make sure my cupcakes are fluffy?
A7: Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined ensures light and fluffy cupcakes.

Q8: Can I make mini cupcakes instead?
A8: Definitely! Just bake them for about 10-12 minutes, and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Q9: Can I use a store-bought frosting instead?
A9: Sure! If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought strawberry frosting. Just add a little extra strawberry puree to amp up the flavor!

Q10: How can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
A10: To make them dairy-free, use dairy-free butter, plant-based milk, and a non-dairy cream cheese or butter alternative for the frosting.

Conclusion

These Valentine’s Day Strawberry Cupcakes are the perfect way to celebrate love and sweetness. With their tender, strawberry-infused cupcakes and creamy strawberry frosting, they’re sure to make your heart (and taste buds) happy. Whether you’re baking them for a Valentine’s Day treat or just because, these cupcakes will always steal the show! Enjoy every bite!

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