Unveil the perfect blend of rich chocolate and zesty strawberries with these Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes. Each cupcake combines a moist chocolate base with a heart of luscious strawberry filling, topped with silky, fluffy frosting. These treats are not just a dessert, but a celebration of delightful contrasts.
Why You'll Love This
Perfect for chocolate and fruit lovers alike, these cupcakes balance the deep, intense flavor of chocolate with the bright, sweet notes of fresh strawberries. The smooth, rich frosting adds a luxurious texture that makes each bite deeply satisfying.
Perfect Occasion
Ideal for any celebration, these cupcakes shine at birthday parties, romantic dinners, or as a special treat during festive gatherings. They're also wonderful as a thoughtful homemade gift to show someone how much you care.
Decoration Tips
Adorn these cupcakes with a slice of fresh strawberry or a dusting of cocoa powder for a sophisticated look. For special occasions, consider using decorative cupcake liners and a sprinkle of edible glitter for that extra sparkle.
Ingredients
- Cupcake Base:
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup Dutch pressed cocoa powder
- Strawberry Filling:
- 1 1/2 cup strawberries (can be fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 tsp sugar (optional)
- Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp heavy whipping cream or milk
- 1 tbsp reserved strawberry filling
- Preheat and Prepare: Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a cupcake tin with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the oil, egg, sugar, milk, and vanilla. Blend these well.
- Make the Batter: Alternately add the dry ingredients and hot water to the wet mixture, stirring until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the cupcake liners until each is 3/4 full. Bake for 20-23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow to cool.
- Cook the Filling: Combine strawberries, water, and sugar (if using) in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Mash the strawberries and let them cool. Reserve a tablespoon for the frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter for two minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in the strawberry filling.
- Assemble: Hollow out each cupcake center, fill with the strawberry compote, and pipe the frosting on top.
- Refrigerate: Chill the cupcakes until serving.
Enjoy these exquisite Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes, a perfect blend of flavors that are sure to enchant and delight at any occasion!