Fresh strawberry cupcakes topped with strawberry buttercream and garnished with strawberries on a decorative cake stand

Strawberry Cupcakes – Soft, Fruity Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipe

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Strawberry Cupcakes – Soft, Fruity Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipe 5

Introduction

If you’re looking for a charming, flavorful dessert recipe that feels special yet approachable, these strawberry cupcakes are exactly what you need. Made with real fresh strawberries folded directly into a soft vanilla cupcake batter, then topped with a naturally flavored strawberry buttercream, this recipe delivers authentic strawberry taste in every bite. These cupcakes are light, moist, and bursting with fruit, making them ideal for spring gatherings, summer parties, or as elegant Valentine’s Day cupcakes when decorated with fresh berries or festive toppings.

Unlike artificial strawberry-flavored desserts, this recipe relies on real strawberries for both the cupcakes and the frosting. The result is a naturally sweet, slightly tangy dessert that feels fresh and balanced rather than overly sugary. Whether you’re baking for a loved one, planning a Valentine’s celebration, or simply craving a fruity homemade dessert, these strawberry cupcakes are a reliable and impressive choice.

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cupcakes

These cupcakes stand out because they are simple to prepare yet incredibly flavorful. The batter comes together in one bowl without the need for creaming butter, which saves time and effort. Chopped strawberries are gently folded into the batter, ensuring each cupcake has visible pieces of fruit throughout. The strawberry buttercream uses a reduced strawberry puree, intensifying the flavor while keeping the frosting smooth and pipeable.

They’re also versatile. Dress them up with pink liners and heart-shaped decorations for Valentine’s Day cupcakes, or keep them classic with a swirl of frosting and a fresh strawberry slice for everyday dessert occasions.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Cupcakes

  • 1 ⅔ cups (217 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup (168 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (207 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (115 g) sour cream
  • ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 ½ cups (200 g) chopped fresh strawberries
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For the Strawberry Buttercream

  • 1 ½ cups (200 g) chopped fresh strawberries
  • 1 ¼ cups (280 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 5 cups (575 g) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 pinches salt
  • Fresh strawberries, for decorating
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Strawberry Cupcakes – Soft, Fruity Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipe 6

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cupcake pan
  • Cupcake liners
  • Food processor or blender
  • Small saucepan
  • Electric mixer
  • Piping bag and tip (optional)

How to Make Strawberry Cupcakes (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Milk

Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Add the sour cream and whisk until smooth, followed by the milk.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes tender.

Step 6: Fold in Strawberries

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped strawberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Fill cupcake liners slightly more than halfway full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely.

How to Make Strawberry Buttercream

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Reduction

Blend the chopped strawberries into a smooth puree. You should have about ¾ cup of puree. Transfer it to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until reduced to about 6 tablespoons. This takes approximately 10–15 minutes. Let cool completely.

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Step 2: Beat the Butter

In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Flavorings

Add about half of the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add 4 tablespoons of the cooled strawberry reduction, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Finish the Frosting

Add the remaining powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Adjust consistency and flavor with additional strawberry reduction if needed.

you can use some candies or macarons in a heart shape as a cute addition.

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Strawberry Cupcakes – Soft, Fruity Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipe 7

Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the strawberry buttercream on top. Garnish with fresh strawberry halves if desired. These strawberry cupcakes instantly transform into beautiful Valentine’s Day cupcakes with pink liners or heart decorations.

Storage Tips

Store cupcakes covered in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

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