There’s something magical about a sunny day that calls for the refreshing taste of Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake that bursts with juicy strawberries and zesty lemon, all topped with a cloud of sweet, tangy frosting. zesty lemon crinkle cookies fresh strawberry muffins The aroma alone will have you daydreaming of summer picnics, laughter, and the sound of ice cream trucks in the distance.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?
- How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
- What’s the best way to frost Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These delightful cupcakes are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are a ticket to nostalgia. Picture this: You’re at a family gathering where everyone is sharing stories and laughing over lemonade stands from childhood. banana french toast casserole These Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes fit perfectly into that scene, bringing a smile to every face. Perfect for any occasion, they promise an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- The vibrant colors and enticing aromas create an eye-catching dessert ideal for summer gatherings
- Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors that will brighten any day
- Versatile enough to customize with different fruits or toppings, these cupcakes become your go-to recipe all year round
I remember the first time I made these cupcakes; my friends were so impressed they practically threw confetti at me!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your cupcakes; choose a good quality flour for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens your batter; don’t skimp on this one if you want that delightful sweetness. sweet fruit salad.
- Baking Powder: Provides lift to your cupcakes; ensure it’s fresh for the fluffiest result.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps enhance all the flavors in your cupcakes.
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming; it adds richness and moisture.
- Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together and add fluffiness to the batter.
- Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for maximum flavor; chop them into small pieces before adding to the batter.
- Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice adds tanginess while zest gives an aromatic punch to each bite.
- Milk: A splash of milk keeps your batter moist; whole milk works best for texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for frosting; it creates that sweet cloud on top of each cupcake.
- Heavy Cream: Use this to create a rich frosting that holds its shape beautifully.
- Lemon Extract (optional): A dash can enhance the lemon flavor if you’re feeling fancy!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Muffin Tin: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.
Create Your Dry Mix: In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside while you mix the wet ingredients.
Cream Butter and Sugar Together: In another bowl, cream unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add Eggs and Flavorings : Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then mix in lemon juice, zest, and optional lemon extract for extra zing!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Carefully : Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
Fold in Fresh Strawberries : Gently fold in your chopped strawberries with a spatula. This ensures even distribution without crushing them too much.
Bake Until Golden Brown : Pour batter into prepared cups, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Let Cool Before Frosting : Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Now that you’ve mastered these steps, get ready for frosting magic! These Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are going to be the star of every event you bring them to! For more inspiration, check out this Festive Strawberry Snowball Treats recipe.
You Must Know
- Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are a delightful treat that balances sweetness and tanginess
- Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor
- The aroma of baking cupcakes will fill your kitchen with happiness, making it the perfect recipe for gatherings or celebrations
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk and lemon juice for a smooth batter.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out half the all-purpose flour for almond flour for added nutty flavor. You can also top cupcakes with lemon zest for extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If needed, microwave briefly to warm before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter
- Baking powder freshness is key; test it by adding it to vinegar or water
- Avoid overmixing; stir just enough to combine wet and dry ingredients for light, fluffy cupcakes
Baking these Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes reminds me of my childhood summers spent at my grandma’s house, where we would make lemonade together on hot afternoons.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw them first and drain excess moisture.
How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to frost Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?
Use a cream cheese frosting mixed with lemon zest for a delightful tangy finish. For more inspiration, check out this Zesty Lemon Cream Cheese Delight recipe.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cupcakes 1x
Description
Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of sweet strawberries and tart lemons, perfect for sunny days and summer gatherings. These fluffy treats are topped with a creamy frosting that balances their flavors beautifully, making them an unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or celebrating a birthday, these cupcakes bring joy to every occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup whole milk
- For frosting: 2 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl; set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chopped strawberries gently.
- Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cupcakes before frosting with heavy cream whipped into the powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (60g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg