Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

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If you have a soft spot for classic desserts with a fresh twist, then you are going to adore this Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe. These cupcakes combine the lightest, most tender vanilla crumb you can imagine with a luscious, vibrant strawberry buttercream that tastes like summer in every bite. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special celebration, these cupcakes bring joy not just in flavor but in their irresistible inviting appearance that’s bound to impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something so wonderfully delicious and visually stunning. Each component in this Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe plays an essential role — from the richness of butter to the bright freshness of strawberries, making every bite unforgettable.

• 1/2 cup butter, softened: The base of both cupcake and frosting, providing richness and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the cupcakes with that classic vanilla aroma and flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light texture in the batter.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to fluffiness.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The structure of your cupcakes, giving them just the right crumb.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: The rising agent that helps make these cupcakes so airy.
• 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and softness to the batter.
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced: The star ingredient that brightens the buttercream naturally.
• 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar: Sweetens the strawberry reduction for a balanced fruity flavor.
• 3/4 cup butter: Extra butter for that perfectly creamy strawberry buttercream.
• 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners sugar), divided: Provides sweetness and helps with frosting consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor and complements strawberry beautifully.

How to Make Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy — this is key to getting that amazing texture. Then, add the vanilla extract, milk, and eggs one at a time, making sure everything is mixed well before adding the next. Finally, sift together the flour and baking powder and carefully fold this dry mixture into your wet batter until just combined. This gentle folding will keep your cupcakes light and airy.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide your batter evenly among the lined cups — this helps them bake uniformly. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done once the tops turn a delicate golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. Resist the urge to frost them immediately; allow them to cool fully on a rack so the frosting won’t melt and will spread beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Puree

While your cupcakes cool, prepare the strawberry component of this Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe. Blend the sliced fresh strawberries until smooth, then measure out about one cup of puree. This fresh puree brings that irresistible natural fruit sweetness and vibrant color to the frosting.

Step 4: Reduce the Strawberry Puree

Pour the puree into a saucepan along with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and heat it over medium-high until it gently boils. Then lower the heat and simmer, stirring frequently. You want the mixture to reduce down to about half a cup, which intensifies the strawberry flavor and thickens the texture — perfect for frosting.

Step 5: Strain and Chill the Puree

Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh to remove seeds and solids. This step ensures your buttercream will be smooth without any gritty texture. Place the strained puree in the freezer to cool rapidly, or simply let it chill completely in the fridge.

Step 6: Prepare the Buttercream Base

Beat the 3/4 cup butter in a stand mixer until it’s cloud-like and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar in two stages — 2 cups first, mixing in half-cup increments. This slow incorporation makes a delightfully creamy base for the strawberry flavor to shine through.

Step 7: Combine and Finalize the Strawberry Buttercream

Once your strawberry puree is thoroughly chilled, add it to the butter and sugar mixture and continue beating until everything is fully blended and richly colorful. Then add the remaining powdered sugar and beat until the frosting becomes thick, smooth, and perfect to spread or pipe. Feel free to adjust the texture by adding more powdered sugar to thicken it or a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.

Step 8: Frost and Enjoy

Spread or pipe the luscious strawberry buttercream over your cooled vanilla cupcakes. These Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe beauties are now ready to delight your taste buds and brighten any dessert table. Garnish as you like or just dig in — you deserve it!

How to Serve Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair to your cupcakes is easy and fun. Try topping them with fresh sliced strawberries, a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds for crunch, or even edible flowers for a sophisticated touch. These little extras make your cupcakes feel extra special and that much more inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair your cupcakes with light accompaniments such as a fresh mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A cup of fragrant herbal tea or a crisp glass of sparkling lemonade complements the sweet, fluffy vanilla and fresh strawberry flavors perfectly, creating a balanced and refreshing dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider arranging your cupcakes on a pretty tiered stand for a stunning display at parties. You can also serve them in colorful cupcake wrappers or place them in small gift boxes for a charming homemade gift. For a fun twist, create a cupcake decorating station and let guests add their own garnishes and sprinkles for a personalized touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your cupcakes will keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain the freshness of the buttercream, refrigeration is recommended if storing longer, but be sure to let cupcakes come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze both the unfrosted cupcakes and the buttercream separately. Wrap the cooled cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. The strawberry buttercream can be froze in an airtight container but might need a quick re-whip after thawing to restore its silky texture.

Reheating

If you prefer your cupcakes slightly warm, gently reheat individual cupcakes in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds before frosting. Avoid reheating frozen cupcakes with frosting to prevent melting. When ready to serve, allow frozen cupcakes to thaw at room temperature fully for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the buttercream?

Yes, you can substitute frozen strawberries for fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before blending and reducing for the buttercream to avoid making it too runny.

What can I use instead of butter in the cupcakes?

While butter gives the best flavor and texture, you can substitute an equal amount of vegetable oil or a neutral-flavored oil. Keep in mind this may slightly change the richness and crumb of the cupcakes.

How do I make sure my cupcakes come out fluffy and not dense?

Properly creaming the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy is crucial, as is gently folding in the dry ingredients without overmixing. Overmixing can develop gluten and make cupcakes tough or dense.

Can I make the frosting without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! Use a handheld electric mixer or whisk, though beating by hand may require more time and effort to achieve the same fluffy texture.

How long will these cupcakes stay fresh once frosted?

Once frosted, these cupcakes are best enjoyed within 2 days when stored in the refrigerator. Beyond that, the freshness and texture of the buttercream might begin to degrade.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade cupcakes made with love, and this Fluffy Vanilla Cupcakes with Fresh Strawberry Buttercream Recipe is a shining example of that magic. With fluffy texture, fresh fruity frosting, and a straightforward process, it’s bound to become a go-to treat in your baking repertoire. So grab your mixing bowl and fresh strawberries, and get ready to create some joyful, finger-licking cupcakes that bring smiles every time.

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