Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Introduction

These Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic strawberry shortcake, combining the sweetness of fresh strawberries, the richness of buttery cake, and the irresistible crunch of a topping made with strawberry-flavored crumbs. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of soft, fluffy cake and a burst of strawberry flavor that will make your taste buds dance.

I remember the first time I baked these cupcakes for a summer picnic, and the vibrant pink crunch topping caught everyone’s eye. The combination of textures—from the moist cake to the crunchy topping—makes these cupcakes truly special.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to make and how versatile it can be. You can customize the topping with more or less crunch depending on your preference, or even mix in a bit of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Perfect for:

• Birthday parties
• Summer picnics
• Family gatherings
• Baby showers
• Strawberry lovers

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Here’s why Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes will become your new go-to dessert:

• Fluffy and Moist Cupcakes: These cupcakes have a light and airy texture that’s perfectly complemented by a moist crumb.
• Strawberry Flavor in Every Bite: The cupcakes are infused with real strawberry flavor, enhanced by the crunchy topping that adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
• Fun and Colorful: The bright pink crunch topping makes these cupcakes as fun to look at as they are to eat.
• Simple Yet Delicious: The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, but the result is an impressive and delicious dessert.
• Versatile Topping: The signature strawberry crunch topping can be used for other desserts like cakes, cheesecakes, or even ice cream.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon strawberry extract (optional)

Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 1 cup Golden Oreos, crushed
• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons strawberry jello powder (or strawberry-flavored gelatin)

Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons strawberry puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Ingredient Highlights

• Strawberry Puree: The puree gives the cupcakes a natural, vibrant strawberry flavor without artificial additives.
• Golden Oreos: These cookies create the perfect base for the crunch topping, adding a buttery sweetness and texture.
• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These provide an intense strawberry flavor that’s crisp and flavorful, making them ideal for the topping.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and tenderness to the cupcakes, ensuring they stay soft and rich.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes:

Prepare the Cupcakes:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized 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 softened 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, and then add the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
5. Add the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the milk, strawberry puree, and sour cream. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

9. Crush the Oreos and Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Place the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries in a zip-top bag or food processor and crush them into fine crumbs.
10. Mix the Crunch Topping: In a bowl, combine the crushed Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, melted butter, and strawberry jello powder. Mix until everything is well coated and crumbly.

Prepare the Frosting:

11. Make the Frosting: Beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
12. Add the Strawberry Puree and Vanilla: Add 2-3 tablespoons of strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cupcakes:

13. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread a generous layer of the strawberry frosting on top of each cupcake.
14. Add the Crunch Topping: Gently press the strawberry crunch topping into the frosting to create a colorful, crunchy finish.

How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion and can be served in a variety of ways:

• For Birthdays or Special Events: These cupcakes are perfect for celebrations, especially with their vibrant pink color and delicious crunch topping.
• With a Cold Drink: Pair these cupcakes with a glass of cold milk or a fruity lemonade for a refreshing treat.
• For Summer Picnics: Their light and fruity flavor make them an ideal dessert for outdoor events like picnics or barbecues.
• Gift-Giving: Pack these cupcakes in a cute box or tin as a thoughtful homemade gift.
• As a Party Treat: These cupcakes make a showstopping dessert for any gathering, with the added bonus of being easy to serve.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Strawberry Puree: For the best flavor, use fresh or frozen strawberries to make the puree, as it adds a vibrant, natural taste.
• Crush the Cookies and Strawberries Well: Make sure the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries are crushed into fine crumbs to ensure a smooth, even topping.
• Don’t Overmix the Cupcake Batter: Overmixing can make the cupcakes dense, so mix the batter just until combined.
• Let the Cupcakes Cool Completely: This is important for preventing the frosting from melting when applied.
• Use a Piping Bag for the Frosting: For a professional-looking finish, use a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip to frost the cupcakes.
• Customize the Topping: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of strawberry jello powder in the topping.

Recipe Variations for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Here are 10 variations you can try for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes:

• Lemon Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Add a bit of lemon zest and juice to the batter for a citrusy twist.
• Chocolate Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the cupcake batter for a chocolate-strawberry combination.
• Vegan Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Use dairy-free butter, non-dairy milk, and flax eggs for a vegan-friendly version.
• Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes: Add whipped cream on top instead of frosting for a lighter, shortcake-style cupcake.
• Chocolate Ganache Topping: For a richer topping, drizzle chocolate ganache over the frosting and add the crunch topping.
• Strawberry and Coconut Crunch Cupcakes: Mix shredded coconut into the crunch topping for an added texture.
• Raspberry Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Swap some of the strawberry puree for raspberry puree for a tangy variation.
• Peach Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Incorporate peach puree into the batter for a fruity combination of peach and strawberry.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Crunch Cupcakes: Add a cheesecake filling to the center of each cupcake for a creamy surprise.
• Gluten-Free Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

• Freezing: These cupcakes freeze well. To freeze, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag. They will last up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you cream the butter and sugar, as well as mix the frosting to a smooth consistency.
• Cupcake Liners: Use colorful cupcake liners to make the cupcakes even more festive.
• Food Processor or Zip-Top Bags: For crushing the Golden Oreos and freeze-dried strawberries into crumbs.
• Piping Bags and Tips: A piping bag with a large round or star tip will help you create beautiful, professional-looking frosting.
• Muffin Tin: Ensure your muffin tin is lined with cupcake liners for easy removal and clean-up.
• Cooling Rack: A wire rack will help the cupcakes cool evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will help you achieve the best results in both the batter and frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries for the crunch topping?
   Fresh strawberries may not give the same crunchy texture, so freeze-dried strawberries are recommended for the best result.
2. Can I make the cupcakes ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day ahead and store them at room temperature. Frost them just before serving.
3. Can I freeze the frosting?
   Yes, you can freeze the frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator and re-whip before using.
4. Can I use another flavor of Jello for the crunch topping?
   Yes, you can experiment with different flavored gelatin, such as raspberry or cherry, for a unique flavor.
5. How can I make the cupcakes less sweet?
   You can reduce the amount of sugar in both the cupcakes and the frosting to suit your taste preferences.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly balances fruity sweetness with a satisfying crunch. The light, fluffy cupcakes are paired with creamy strawberry frosting, topped off with a crunchy strawberry shortcake crumble that adds an irresistible texture. These cupcakes are the ideal dessert for any occasion, from birthdays to casual get-togethers, and are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Whether you’re making them for a celebration or simply enjoying them as a personal indulgence, these cupcakes are bound to be a hit. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and absolutely delicious—bringing both flavor and joy to your table!

I’d love to see how your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!