Name: Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes to Satisfy Your Cravings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 oz Strawberries (Fresh or frozen work beautifully; just remember, no need to thaw them!); 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar (Adjust to your preferred sweetness.); 2 tbsp Water (Use less if using frozen berries.); ½ tbsp Cornstarch (Thickens the strawberry filling.); ½ tbsp Lemon Juice (Brightens the flavor.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure.); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (Enhances chocolate flavor.); ½ cup Cocoa Powder (Opt for natural for best results.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Helps rise.); ½ tsp Baking Soda (Works alongside baking powder.); ½ tsp Coarse Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness.); 2 large Eggs (At room temperature for best results.); ½ cup Milk (Any type will suffice.); ½ cup Vegetable Oil (Adds richness.); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Deepens flavor profile.); ¼ cup Hot Coffee (Enhances chocolate flavor.); 1 cup Freeze-Dried Strawberries (Grind them to a fine powder.); 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Cold for best results.); 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness.)

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The rich aroma of chocolate wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me to sunny afternoons spent baking with my grandmother. Those memories of making sweet treats have evolved, but the joy of creating something delicious remains as strong as ever. Today, I’m excited to share my Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes—a perfect blend of indulgent chocolate and fresh strawberries that will brighten up any occasion. Not only are these cupcakes easy to whip up, but they also offer a delightful twist with a luscious strawberry filling and airy whipped cream frosting that’ll have your friends and family raving. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or just craving something homemade and comforting, these cupcakes hit all the right notes. Ready to dive into a world where sweetness meets nostalgia? Let’s get baking!

Why Are Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes Irresistible?

Decadent and delightful, these cupcakes are a match made in dessert heaven! With a rich chocolate base that’s complemented by a sweet strawberry filling, each bite is a burst of flavor. Easy to make, you’ll find joy in baking and sharing these treats. Perfect for any occasion, they not only satisfy your cravings but also bring smiles to faces—transforming any gathering into a sweet celebration. If you love uplifting flavors, you might also enjoy our Strawberry Mango Cupcakes or for a quick no-bake option, check out our No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oreo Dessert.

Strawberry Chocolate Cupcake Ingredients

For the Strawberry Filling
• Strawberries (4 oz / 115 g) – Fresh or frozen work beautifully; just remember, no need to thaw them!
• Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp / 15 g) – Sweetens the filling; adjust to your preferred sweetness.
• Water (2 tbsp / 30 ml) – Aids in creating the strawberry sauce; use less if using frozen berries.
• Cornstarch (½ tbsp) – Thickens the strawberry filling for a perfect consistency.
• Lemon Juice (½ tbsp) – Brightens the flavor, making the filling truly pop.

For the Cupcake Batter
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 125 g) – Provides the structure every cupcake needs.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup / 150 g) – Adds sweetness to the cupcake, enhancing the chocolate flavor.
• Cocoa Powder (½ cup / 60 g) – For that rich chocolate essence; opt for natural cocoa for best results.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully in the oven.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Works alongside the baking powder to lift the batter.
• Coarse Kosher Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness and elevates flavor.
• Eggs (2, large) – Bring moisture and structure; they should be at room temperature for best results.
• Milk (½ cup / 120 ml) – Keeps the cupcakes moist; any milk type will suffice.
• Vegetable Oil (½ cup / 120 ml) – Adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Deepens the flavor profile, making it irresistible.
• Hot Coffee (¼ cup / 60 ml) – Enhances the chocolate flavor significantly.

For the Whipped Cream Frosting
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries (1 cup / 15 g) – To infuse your frosting with berry goodness; grind them to a fine powder.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup / 240 ml, cold) – Creates a light and airy frosting that complements the cupcakes perfectly.
• Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp / 30 g) – Adds a touch of sweetness to the whipped cream frosting.

These Strawberry Chocolate Cupcake ingredients come together to create an enchanting treat that will surely delight your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 4 oz of strawberries, 1 tbsp of sugar, and 2 tbsp of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Once boiling, mix the cornstarch with ½ tbsp of lemon juice, add it to the saucepan, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool in the fridge while you prepare the cupcakes.

Step 2: Prep the Oven and Muffin Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin pan by lining it with cupcake liners. This step is crucial to ensure your delicious Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes cook evenly and don’t stick. Make sure you’re using high-quality liners to enhance the visual appeal of your cupcakes.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, ¾ cup of sugar, ½ cup of cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking powder, ½ tsp of baking soda, and ½ tsp of coarse kosher salt. Blend until fully combined to create a uniform base for your cupcakes, which will give them that perfect chocolatey sweetness that pairs beautifully with the strawberry filling.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ½ cup of milk, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 2 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth. Adding ¼ cup of hot coffee will enhance the chocolate flavor, making it rich and delightful. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated before moving to the next step, as this will ensure a moist cupcake.

Step 5: Mix and Fill the Cupcake Liners
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This will keep your Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes light and fluffy. Using a cookie scoop, fill each lined cupcake mold about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s essential to let them cool fully before adding the strawberry filling and frosting to prevent melting and help maintain the cupcake’s structure.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting
To prepare the frosting, grind 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder. In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form, then gradually add 2 tbsp of granulated sugar and the strawberry powder. Continue whipping until the frosting thickens into a light, airy texture, perfect for your cupcakes.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a small knife to core the center of each cupcake. Fill each cavity with the chilled strawberry filling, then generously frost each cupcake with the strawberry whipped cream. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with chocolate-covered strawberries for a gorgeous presentation that highlights their deliciousness.

Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes Variations

Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these scrumptious twists that add unique flavors and textures to your cupcakes.

Dairy-Free: Swap milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free whipped topping for a delicious plant-based option.
Jam Filling: Replace strawberry filling with your favorite jam, like raspberry or blueberry, for a fun burst of flavor.
Chocolate Buttercream: For an indulgent twist, use rich chocolate buttercream frosting instead of whipped cream for a chocolate lover’s dream.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped hazelnuts or pecans into the cupcake batter for a delightful crunch alongside the fluffy texture.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into your cocoa powder for an unexpected spicy chocolate experience!
Mocha Infusion: Replace hot coffee with a shot of espresso for an intense chocolate flavor with a coffee kick—perfect for grown-up gatherings!
Strawberry Buttercream: Swap the whipped cream frosting for strawberry buttercream for an even richer and sweeter finish that will leave everyone wanting more.
Extra Toppings: Sprinkle with crushed freeze-dried strawberries or mini chocolate chips on top for added visual appeal and texture.

These variations can elevate your cupcakes to new heights! If you love experimenting with sweet flavors, don’t forget to check out our delicious Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls or for something even more indulgent, try our Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy the joys of baking and make each of these delightful variations your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy weeks! You can make the chocolate cupcake batter and bake the cupcakes up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool them completely and store them in an airtight container. The strawberry filling can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, core the cupcakes and fill them with the chilled strawberry sauce, then top with freshly whipped cream frosting. This ensures that each cupcake remains just as delicious as when you first made them, with no compromise on flavor or texture!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes

Cool Completely: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before adding filling and frosting to prevent melting and preserve their fluffy texture.
Perfect Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for precise cupcake ingredients, especially cocoa powder and flour, to achieve consistent flavors in your Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes.
Sift Cocoa Powder: Sifting cocoa powder and dry ingredients helps avoid clumps, ensuring a smooth batter for even baking and perfect chocolate flavor.
Temperature Matters: Let eggs and milk come to room temperature before mixing, which aids in achieving a light and airy cupcake.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Grind freeze-dried strawberries for your frosting to ensure even flavor distribution without altering texture, making your cupcakes truly irresistible.
Customize with Toppings: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture, delighting everyone in your family!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes

Fridge: Store these delightful Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This helps maintain their moisture and fluffy texture.

Freezer: You can freeze frosted cupcakes for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cupcakes, simply remove them from the freezer and thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to bounce back!

Reheating: If desired, gently warm a cupcake in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy, freshly-baked taste!

What to Serve with Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes

Elevate your cupcake experience with perfect pairings that delight the senses and complement the rich flavors of your treat.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or mixed berries add a burst of freshness that enhances the chocolate and strawberry flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the rich frosting, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the frosting for an extra layer of indulgence—two chocolates are always better than one!
Whipped Cream: Serve alongside a cup of freshly whipped cream for an easy dip or dollop—a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon adds a clean contrast to the sweetness, cleansing the palate perfectly during dessert.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with a hint of mint offers a refreshing counterbalance to the rich chocolate cupcakes. The sweet, tangy flavors pair beautifully!
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the chocolate while elevating the tasting experience, making each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These not only look stunning on the plate alongside your cupcakes but also create a delightful double chocolate experience!

Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are firm, plump, and bright red without any dark spots or bruises. The green caps should be fresh and vibrant, indicating they were recently harvested. If you can smell the sweetness before you even take a bite, you know it’s going to elevate your cupcake’s flavor!

How should I store leftover cupcakes?
Store your Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This will keep them fresh and moist. I recommend placing a piece of wax paper between layers if you stack them to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Very! You can freezer frosted cupcakes for up to three months. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Once solid, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps the cupcakes tasting delicious.

What common mistakes should I avoid when making the frosting?
One frequent pitfall is over-beating the whipped cream. Watch for soft peaks to form, and be sure to stop whipping just as it thickens to avoid turning it into butter. Start with cold heavy whipping cream for best results, and use a chilled bowl to help it whip faster. Remember, patience is key—take your time to achieve that airy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cupcakes?
Certainly! The recipe is nut-free and can be modified to suit certain dietary preferences. For vegan versions, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and oil. Be cautious about cross-contamination if you have nut allergies, especially with certain brands of chocolate. Always check labels if you’re unsure!

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
The more the merrier! You can certainly swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries in the filling while adjusting the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. This subtle change will create a fun twist on the classic recipe while keeping that delightful balance of chocolate and fruit flavors.