Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that bursts with the perfect combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries, then this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine moist, chocolatey cupcakes filled with luscious strawberry-infused buttercream, topped with a glossy chocolate ganache and crowned with fresh or chocolate-dipped strawberries. This treat feels indulgent but is surprisingly approachable, making it ideal for celebrations or just a special weekend bake that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a vital role—from the all-purpose flour providing structure to the freeze-dried strawberry powder adding a vibrant pop of natural flavor and color to the buttercream. These ingredients come together to create layers of texture and taste that are truly unforgettable.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cupcakes their tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness and a beautiful dark color.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Supports an even lift and light texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps cupcakes moist and soft without heaviness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just right and contributes to tenderness.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brightens the flavor with warmth and depth.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and enhances the tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup hot coffee or water: Intensifies chocolate notes for a sophisticated twist.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for the creamy, flavorful buttercream filling.
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and smooths the buttercream perfectly.
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (ground into powder): Infuses the frosting with pure strawberry essence and gorgeous pink color.
• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream: Creates the perfect consistency for frosting fluffiness.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a delicate sweetness to the buttercream.
• Pinch of salt (optional): Enhances the strawberry flavor, balancing sweetness.
• 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped: Basis for the smooth, luscious chocolate ganache.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Blends with chocolate to create a shine and silky texture for the ganache.
• Fresh strawberry slices or chocolate-dipped strawberries: Offer a stunning final touch and extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Liners

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin pan with cupcake liners. This simple step ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and come out cleanly from their pans without sticking—always a win.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture forms the base of your cupcake batter, giving it structure and that classic chocolate flavor balance.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate larger bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk together until smooth. This mixture ensures your cupcakes come out moist and flavorful. The oil keeps the crumb tender and rich in taste.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Then stir in the hot coffee or water until your batter is smooth. The hot coffee enhances the chocolate depth without adding coffee flavor, making every bite decadent.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Test with a toothpick to ensure they come out clean, indicating the cupcakes are perfectly baked. Let them cool completely before refreshing them with strawberry buttercream.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Buttercream Filling

With softened butter beaten until creamy, gradually add confectioners’ sugar and the powdered freeze-dried strawberries. Next, mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the batter is light and fluffy. A pinch of salt balances the flavors beautifully.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream just to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes before stirring until silky smooth. Allow it to cool until spreadable but still glossy.

Step 8: Fill the Cupcakes

Carefully cut a small cone-shaped piece out of the center of each cooled cupcake. Fill the hollow with your strawberry buttercream and replace the top portion of the cupcake back in place. This surprise center adds an incredible burst of flavor in every bite.

Step 9: Finish with Ganache and Garnish

Spread the luscious chocolate ganache over the top of each cupcake. For the final flourish, adorn with fresh strawberry slices or elegant chocolate-dipped strawberries, making these cupcakes as beautiful as they are delicious.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberry slices or chocolate-dipped strawberries elevate these cupcakes beyond ordinary. They add visual appeal and offer a fresh or extra chocolate-enriched bite, complimenting the rich ganache and fruity buttercream perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a light berry salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement their sweet, rich flavors while balancing the overall meal experience. A cup of rich coffee or tea also pairs wonderfully to enhance the dessert ritual.

Creative Ways to Present

Present these cupcakes on a tiered cake stand for special occasions or arrange them in a colorful box tied with a ribbon for gifting. For parties, place small paper flags or delicate edible flowers on top to match your event’s theme and wow your guests even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature if consuming within two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. Keep them away from strong smells to maintain their delicate flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cupcakes without frosting for up to three months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw completely before filling and frosting for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated cupcakes by letting them come to room temperature or warming gently in a low oven for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the ganache and make the texture less pleasant.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh strawberries for freeze-dried strawberry powder in the buttercream?

Fresh strawberries contain more moisture, which can affect the buttercream’s consistency. Freeze-dried strawberry powder is recommended because it imparts pure strawberry flavor without altering texture.

What if I don’t drink coffee? Can I omit it from the cupcake batter?

Absolutely! You can use hot water instead of coffee. The coffee deepens the chocolate flavor but does not taste like coffee, so feel free to use water if preferred.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make it dairy-free, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives and choose dairy-free chocolate. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How long do the cupcakes stay fresh once frosted?

Once frosted with buttercream and ganache, cupcakes are best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days when refrigerated. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I make the buttercream or ganache ahead of time?

Yes, both can be made a day ahead. Store buttercream and ganache covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before using for easier spreading and fluffier texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe is truly a showstopper that combines the best of both worlds — the decadent, comforting feeling of chocolate and the fresh, bright taste of strawberries. I can’t wait for you to try baking these yourself and share them with your loved ones. Trust me, once you do, these cupcakes will quickly become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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