Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

Introduction

Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes bring the beloved café favorite to life in dessert form, blending the sweet, refreshing flavors of a strawberry frappuccino into a soft, moist cupcake. Infused with real strawberries and topped with a light, fluffy whipped cream frosting, these cupcakes capture the perfect balance of fruity freshness and creamy indulgence. A drizzle of strawberry sauce adds the finishing touch, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

The first time I made these, they disappeared within minutes! The combination of fresh berries and airy whipped topping made every bite feel like a little taste of summer. One of the best things about these cupcakes is their versatility—you can add a hint of vanilla or almond to the batter for extra depth, mix in white chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, or even swirl in some strawberry purée for a marbled effect.

And let’s talk toppings! Whether you keep it classic with just whipped cream and a drizzle or go all out with freeze-dried strawberries, chocolate shavings, or a mini straw for that signature frappuccino look, these cupcakes are as fun to decorate as they are to eat. Perfect for birthdays, afternoon tea, or just treating yourself, they’re a must-try for any strawberry lover!

Perfect for:

• Birthday parties
• Afternoon tea
• Spring and summer gatherings
• Café-inspired dessert lovers
• Elegant dessert displays

Why You’ll Love This Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

Here’s why Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes will become a favorite:

• Moist and Fluffy Texture: Fresh strawberries and a hint of cream keep these cupcakes soft and tender.
• Authentic Strawberry Flavor: Made with real strawberries for a natural fruity sweetness.
• Light and Creamy Frosting: Whipped cream frosting adds a cloud-like texture that isn’t too heavy.
• Café-Inspired Twist: Perfect for fans of Starbucks’ Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino.
• Visually Stunning: Beautiful pink swirls, fresh strawberry garnishes, and a drizzle of strawberry sauce make them irresistible.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup fresh strawberry purée (about 5-6 strawberries, blended)

Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries (halved or sliced)
• Strawberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Crushed freeze-dried strawberries (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Fresh Strawberry Purée: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Creates a light, airy frosting without being overly sweet.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the strawberries’ natural flavor for a balanced taste.
• Milk: Helps create a soft and fluffy cupcake texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
5. Incorporate the Strawberry Purée: Stir in the fresh strawberry purée until fully combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.

Bake the Cupcakes:

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting:

10. Chill the Mixing Bowl: Place your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before making the whipped cream.
11. Whip the Cream: In the chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).

Frost and Decorate:

12. Pipe the Frosting: Transfer the whipped cream frosting to a piping bag fitted with a star tip and swirl onto the cooled cupcakes.
13. Garnish: Top with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of strawberry sauce, and crushed freeze-dried strawberries if desired.

How to Serve Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes are best served fresh and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• With a Straw – Insert a mini straw into each cupcake to mimic a frappuccino look.
• Whipped Cream Topping – Swirl fresh whipped cream on top for an extra creamy touch.
• Drizzled with Strawberry Syrup – Add a drizzle of strawberry or white chocolate syrup for extra flavor.
• Served in a Mini Cup – Place cupcakes in small clear cups to resemble Starbucks frappuccino cups.
• With a Strawberry Garnish – Top each cupcake with a fresh strawberry or strawberry slice.
• Dusted with Pink Sugar – Sprinkle pink or red sanding sugar for a fun, sparkling finish.
• Paired with a Cold Drink – Serve with an actual strawberries and cream frappuccino for a perfect pairing.
• Decorated with Chocolate Shavings – Add white or milk chocolate curls for a gourmet touch.
• Served on a Tiered Tray – Arrange them on a beautiful dessert stand for a party-ready presentation.
• With a Dollop of Strawberry Jam – A small spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each cupcake for a fruity surprise.

Additional Tips for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

• Use Fresh, Ripe Strawberries: This ensures the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Do Not Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cupcakes dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Chill the Whipping Cream Properly: Cold heavy cream whips better and holds its shape longer.
• Frost Just Before Serving: Since the frosting is whipped cream-based, it’s best applied shortly before serving for the freshest look.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cupcake, slightly reduce the sugar in the batter.
• Store Properly: Keep cupcakes refrigerated due to the whipped cream frosting.

Recipe Variations for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

Here are 10 fun variations you can try for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes:

1. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cupcakes: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter and drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting.
2. Vanilla Bean Strawberry Cupcakes: Use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for a deeper vanilla flavor.
3. Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes: Fill the cupcakes with strawberry jam for an extra fruity surprise.
4. Matcha Strawberry Cupcakes: Add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to the batter for a green tea twist.
5. Lemon Strawberry Cupcakes: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy contrast.
6. Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes: Swirl in a little cream cheese into the frosting for a tangy balance.
7. Berry Medley Cupcakes: Use a combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries in the purée.
8. Coconut Strawberry Cupcakes: Fold shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist.
9. Strawberry-Almond Cupcakes: Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor complement.
10. Vegan Strawberry Cupcakes: Use plant-based milk and coconut whipped cream for a dairy-free version.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

• Freezing: The unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Storage: Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

• Electric Mixer: Helps achieve a smooth batter and fluffy whipped cream.
• Muffin Tin: Standard 12-cup muffin tin for even baking.
• Piping Bag and Star Tip: For beautifully swirled frosting.
• Cooling Rack: Ensures even cooling.
• Zester: If making the lemon-strawberry variation.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes

1. Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them well before blending into purée.
2. Can I use store-bought whipped topping? While possible, fresh whipped cream gives the best texture and flavor.
3. How do I prevent soggy cupcakes? Avoid overloading the batter with too much purée.
4. Can I make these dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free milk and coconut whipped cream.
5. Can I reduce the sugar? Yes, but keep at least ½ cup in the batter for proper texture.

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Conclusion

Strawberries and Cream Frappuccino Cupcakes bring the beloved café classic to life in a delightful, bakery-style treat. With their fruity, creamy, and perfectly sweet flavors, these cupcakes are an irresistible indulgence. Topped with a luscious swirl of frosting and a hint of strawberry goodness, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating with friends or simply treating yourself.

Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cupcakes are a must-try for anyone who loves a touch of sweetness with their coffeehouse-inspired flavors. Share your creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see how they turn out! Happy baking!