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Before you begin mixing your cupcake batter, it’s essential to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the cupcakes bake evenly and rise properly. While the oven is heating, prepare your muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners. This not only makes for easy removal but also helps maintain the shape of the cupcakes. If you prefer, you can lightly spray the liners with non-stick cooking spray to guarantee that your cupcakes won’t stick.

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Get ready to indulge in a sweet summer delight with Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes! These individual treats combine the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake into portable, easy-to-enjoy cupcakes. Made with fresh strawberries, fluffy cake, and a luscious whipped cream topping, they are perfect for picnics and barbecues. Crafting these cupcakes is a joyful experience, bringing together fresh ingredients and a touch of creativity, ensuring a delicious way to celebrate summer.

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 cup whole milk, at room temperature

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Strawberry Filling:

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

For the Whipped Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled

¼ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Garnish:

Fresh strawberries, halved

Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with colorful cupcake liners to add a decorative touch.

    Make the Cupcake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light in color and fluffy in texture. Add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Blend in the vanilla extract until well combined.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent and adds air to the flour for a lighter cupcake.

        Mix Everything Together: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start with the flour mixture and end with the flour. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cupcake.

          Bake the Cupcakes: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared 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. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

            Prepare the Strawberry Filling: While the cupcakes cool, prepare the strawberry filling by combining the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Toss gently to coat the strawberries, and let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to macerate and enhance their sweetness.

              Make the Whipped Topping: In a clean mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment to whip the chilled heavy cream until it reaches soft peaks. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form, ensuring a fluffy whipped topping.

                Assemble the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, utilize a cupcake corer or a sharp knife to carefully remove a small portion from the center of each cupcake. Fill the hollowed center of each cupcake generously with the prepared strawberry filling.

                  Top with Whipped Cream: Pipe or dollop a cloud of whipped topping onto each filled cupcake, generously covering the strawberry filling to create a beautiful finish.

                    Garnish and Serve: To make your cupcakes truly stunning, adorn each one with a halved strawberry and, if desired, a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color and aromatic touch. Savor the delightful flavors of your strawberry shortcake cupcakes!

                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12