Mouthwatering doesn’t even begin to describe these chocolate covered strawberry cupcakes. Combining the classic duo of chocolate and strawberry into a cupcake form, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from Valentine’s Day to just because you deserve a treat. Let’s dive into making these decadent delights.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of moist chocolate cupcakes with fresh strawberry frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Using real strawberries in the frosting adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- The chocolate ganache drizzle mimics the look and taste of chocolate covered strawberries.
- Simple ingredients come together to create an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Piping bag
- Saucepan
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cupcakes will be light and fluffy.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the water, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so stop as soon as the batter is smooth.
Bake to Perfection
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely before frosting.
Create Strawberry Frosting
Beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and pureed strawberries, alternating between the two, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Drizzle with Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream until it simmers, then pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Drizzle over frosted cupcakes for that chocolate covered strawberry effect.
Tips and Tricks
For the best strawberry flavor, use ripe, in-season strawberries. If they’re not in season, frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) can be a good substitute. To achieve the perfect frosting consistency, make sure your butter is at room temperature but not melted. For a smoother ganache, use high-quality chocolate chips. If you’re short on time, store-bought strawberry jam can be mixed into the frosting for a quick flavor boost, though fresh strawberries are recommended for the best taste.
Recipe Variations
- Try using dark chocolate chips for the ganache for a richer flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar to the strawberry puree for a sophisticated twist.
- For a nutty flavor, mix in some finely chopped hazelnuts into the cupcake batter.
- Swap out the strawberry frosting for raspberry or blueberry for a different berry flavor.
- Make mini cupcakes for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them the day you plan to serve them for the freshest taste. The strawberry frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir before using.
How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The frosting may harden in the fridge, so let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting.
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving. It’s best not to freeze the frosted cupcakes as the texture of the frosting may change.
Summary
These chocolate covered strawberry cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds. With a moist chocolate base, fresh strawberry frosting, and a decadent chocolate ganache drizzle, they’re sure to be a hit. Perfect for any occasion or just because, these cupcakes are as fun to make as they are to eat.