Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with these delightful cupcakes.
These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes are a wonderful treat that combines two beloved flavors into one indulgent dessert. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home!
Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
- Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with fresh strawberries
- Moist and fluffy cupcake base
- Beautifully topped with rich chocolate ganache
- Perfect for any occasion or as a sweet indulgence
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes are not just a dessert; they are a celebration on their own. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a wedding shower, or just a casual gathering with friends, these cupcakes will impress your guests. Their delightful combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries makes them a standout choice for any occasion. Plus, they’re visually stunning, ensuring they will be the centerpiece of your dessert table.
These cupcakes also make for a great treat during seasonal celebrations, especially in spring and summer when strawberries are at their peak. Imagine serving these at a garden party or a picnic; their vibrant colors and delicious flavors will surely brighten the day.
A Flavor Combination That Delights
The pairing of chocolate and strawberries is a classic for a reason. The deep, rich flavor of chocolate perfectly complements the sweet and slightly tart taste of fresh strawberries. This balance not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a refreshing element that keeps you coming back for more. Each bite of these cupcakes offers a delightful contrast, making them an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers and fruit enthusiasts alike.
Moreover, the addition of strawberries in the cupcake batter infuses each bite with juicy sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This unique twist on a traditional chocolate cupcake elevates your dessert experience to new heights.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes turn out perfectly, pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Using fresh, ripe strawberries will enhance the flavor and texture of your cupcakes. Additionally, opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the ganache to achieve a rich and decadent topping.
Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients. This will help keep your cupcakes light and fluffy. Remember to check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time; every oven is different, and you want your cupcakes to be just right.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious cupcakes:
For the Cupcakes
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries for topping
Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious cupcakes:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced strawberries.
Fill Cupcake Liners
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Prepare Ganache
Let the cupcakes cool completely. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
Frost the Cupcakes
Once the ganache has cooled slightly, dip the tops of the cupcakes into the ganache and let it set. Top with fresh strawberries.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes!
Storing Your Cupcakes
To maintain their freshness, store your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. However, be aware that refrigeration may alter the texture slightly. When ready to enjoy, allow them to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cupcakes without ganache. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature and top with ganache and fresh strawberries.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes! You can experiment with different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, to cater to your taste. Additionally, consider adding a splash of strawberry puree to the batter for an extra burst of flavor.
For a fun twist, you could also add a layer of strawberry jam or cream cheese frosting between the cupcake and the ganache for added flavor and texture. These variations can personalize your cupcakes and make them even more special for your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
→ How should I store these cupcakes?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with these delightful cupcakes.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 cupcakes
What You'll Need
For the Cupcakes
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
For the Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries for topping
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with cupcake liners.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced strawberries.
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream until just simmering and pour it over the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
Once the ganache has cooled slightly, dip the tops of the cupcakes into the ganache and let it set. Top with fresh strawberries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g