Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes with Whipped Buttercream Frosting

Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate and fruity strawberry with these Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes. Topped with smooth whipped buttercream frosting, chocolate drizzle, and garnished with a cherry or strawberry candy, these cupcakes are as beautiful as they are delicious. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create the ultimate dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Strawberry Buttercream:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup strawberry puree or strawberry jam
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for consistency)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Chocolate chips
• Chocolate sauce
• Strawberry candies or cherries

Instructions

1. Bake the Chocolate Cupcakes

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tray with 12 cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually stir in the buttermilk.
4. Combine and Bake: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Buttercream

1. Whip the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Add Sugar and Strawberry Flavor: Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Stir in strawberry puree or jam, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

3. Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Frost the Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the strawberry buttercream frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.
2. Drizzle with Chocolate: Warm the chocolate sauce and drizzle it over the frosting.
3. Add Garnish: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the frosting and place a strawberry candy or cherry on top for a finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft, chill it for 10–15 minutes before piping.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

These Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes combine the rich, indulgent taste of chocolate with the bright, fruity flavor of strawberries. Their stunning decoration makes them perfect for parties, birthdays, or a romantic treat.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days, allowing to come to room temperature before serving.

Variations

• Triple Chocolate Cupcakes: Add chocolate chips to the cupcake batter for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Fresh Strawberry Garnish: Use fresh strawberries instead of candy for a refreshing decoration.
• Vanilla Base: Swap the chocolate cupcake base for vanilla to let the strawberry frosting shine.

These Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes are a delightful treat for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors and textures!