If you love the irresistible combination of chocolate and strawberries, then you are going to adore this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes bring together moist, chocolatey cake with bursts of fresh strawberry flavor folded right into the batter. Topped off with a cloud of whipped cream and delicate powdered sugar dusting, this dessert truly captures all the joy of a chocolate-covered strawberry in every bite. It’s the perfect recipe to brighten up any occasion or satisfy your sweet tooth with that classic, dreamy duo of chocolate and strawberry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work beautifully together. Each adds a special touch—from the rich chocolate base to the fresh strawberries that give the cupcakes a juicy surprise. The whipped cream topping adds that light, airy finish that lifts these cupcakes to the next level.
- Chocolate cake mix: The foundation for moist, chocolaty cupcakes with consistent flavor and texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture to the batter for softness and enhances the cake’s tenderness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps cupcakes moist and gives them a fine crumb.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients together while adding richness and stability to the structure.
- Strawberries, chopped: Fresh and juicy pieces that infuse the batter with bursts of natural sweetness.
- Whipped cream: Light and fluffy, perfect for topping these cupcakes without overwhelming them.
- Powdered sugar: A gentle dusting that adds a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
How to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Liners
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cupcake tin with paper liners. This simple step ensures that the cupcakes bake evenly and are easy to remove once done.
Step 2: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the chocolate cake mix with milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir everything until the batter is smooth and fully combined. This step creates the luscious chocolate base that makes these cupcakes so decadent.
Step 3: Fold in the Fresh Strawberries
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries to maintain their shape and avoid making the batter too watery. These fruity bits add bursts of fresh flavor and a hint of natural sweetness that sets this recipe apart from the ordinary chocolate cupcake.
Step 4: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Divide the strawberry-studded batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Filling each about two-thirds full will give them the perfect dome shape without spilling over during baking.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake the cupcakes for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool completely before adding toppings to ensure your whipped cream stays fluffy and fresh.
Step 6: Top with Whipped Cream and More Strawberries
Top each cooled cupcake with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkling of powdered sugar, and a few extra fresh strawberries to echo the flavors inside—this step brings the whole Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe together with a show-stopping finish.
How to Serve Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates your cupcakes from delicious to unforgettable. Fresh strawberry slices, tiny chocolate shavings, or a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate can make these treats pop visually while adding extra texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes are perfect on their own but serve them with a glass of cold milk, a cup of rich coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn your dessert into a fun and luxurious experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try arranging the cupcakes on a tiered stand surrounded by fresh strawberries and small chocolate pieces. You could also pipe the whipped cream with a star tip for pretty swirls or add edible flowers to impress your guests invite them into this scrumptious Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps keep the strawberries fresh and the whipped cream topping firm, ready for you to enjoy a treat later.
Freezing
You can freeze the cupcakes without the whipped cream topping by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw in the fridge before adding fresh whipped cream and garnishes.
Reheating
Since these cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh or chilled, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving, then add toppings for the best flavor and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to chop them and gently fold them into your batter to avoid excess moisture that can affect baking.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free alternative, you can easily make these cupcakes gluten-free. Just make sure your mix is suitable for cupcakes and follow the package instructions closely.
How do I make the whipped cream topping stable?
To help whipped cream hold its shape longer, you can whip in a small amount of powdered sugar and a stabilizer like gelatin or use a whipped cream stabilizer product available in stores.
Can I use homemade chocolate cake batter instead of boxed mix?
Definitely! Homemade chocolate cake batter works perfectly and gives you full control over ingredients and sweetness. Just be sure to fold in the strawberries gently to keep that fresh texture.
How long do the cupcakes keep their freshness?
Stored properly in the fridge, these cupcakes stay fresh for about three days. For longer storage, freezing without the topping is your best bet to maintain taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe is truly a joyful celebration of two beloved flavors combined in a fun, easy-to-make dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cupcakes bring warmth, sweetness, and happiness to every bite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it’s impossible not to smile with every mouthful!
Print
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these moist and fluffy Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes, featuring a rich chocolate cake base blended with fresh strawberries, topped with whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Additional strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners to ensure even baking and easy removal.
- Mix Batter: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform without overmixing.
- Fold in Strawberries: Gently fold the chopped strawberries into the batter, distributing them evenly without crushing the fruit.
- Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake: Evenly divide the batter into the prepared cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before removing to avoid breaking them.
- Add Toppings: Once cooled, top each cupcake with whipped cream, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and garnish with additional fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
- Use fresh strawberries for best flavor and texture.
- Whipped cream can be stabilized with a bit of gelatin if you want it to hold longer on warm days.
- For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
- Optional: Add a small drizzle of melted chocolate on top for extra indulgence.
