Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes are the perfect blend of indulgence and nostalgia. With their rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and the delightful taste of fresh strawberries, these cupcakes make a beautiful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a romantic dinner, or just want to please your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are sure to impress!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
Why Make This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
These cupcakes not only satisfy chocolate cravings but also offer the freshness of strawberries in each bite. The irresistible combination of moist chocolate cake topped with smooth chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries adds a burst of flavor and color, making them visually stunning. They’re simple to make but look like you’ve spent hours perfecting them—perfect for impressing guests or treating your family!
How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Making these cupcakes is straightforward and enjoyable, making them a great choice for bakers of all levels. With just a few essential ingredients and steps, you can create a delectable dessert that brings smiles all around.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth, avoiding over-mixing for a tender cupcake.
Step 4: Adding Flavors
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
Step 5: Pouring Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full to allow space for rising.
Step 6: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cooling
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Making Ganache
Meanwhile, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat, add the chocolate chips, and stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 9: Dipping Cupcakes
Dip the top of each cooled cupcake into the chocolate ganache. Make sure the top is well coated for that luxurious finish.
Step 10: Garnishing
Once dipped, place a fresh strawberry on top of each cupcake and allow the ganache to set before serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Serve these cupcakes fresh at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the cupcakes, adding a creamy element that balances the chocolate and strawberries. They are perfect for birthday parties, picnics, or as a special dessert to share with friends.
How to Store Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving again to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much after adding the wet ingredients can make cupcakes dense. Mix until just combined for fluffy results.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and even baking.
- Choose Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best taste and texture; frozen strawberries may add excess moisture.
- Ganache Variations: Experiment with flavored chocolate, like dark chocolate or white chocolate, for a different taste profile.
- Decoration Ideas: Feel free to sprinkle additional chocolate chips or drizzle more ganache over the top for an extra decorative touch.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture.
- Fruit Fusion: Substitute strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of mint extract to the chocolate ganache for a refreshing mint chocolate combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use gluten-free flour?
- Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum for better texture.
-
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
- You can chop a bar of chocolate instead or use mini chocolate chips, which work wonderfully.
-
How can I make these cupcakes less sweet?
- Reduce the sugar in the batter and use dark chocolate for the ganache for a less sweet, richer flavor.
-
Can I freeze these cupcakes?
- Yes, you can freeze them without the ganache. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
-
Can I use whole milk instead of 2%?
- Absolutely! Whole milk will add richness to your cupcakes, making them even more moist.
Conclusion
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. They are easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and steps, yet they look and taste like a gourmet dessert! Whether for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are sure to become a beloved favorite. So gather your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and indulge in the deliciousness! Happy baking!
Print
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cupcakes combining rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 cup chopped strawberries
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Add the softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until the batter is smooth, avoiding over-mixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Meanwhile, heat the heavy cream until just simmering, then add the chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
- Dip the top of each cooled cupcake into the chocolate ganache.
- Place a fresh strawberry on top of each cupcake and allow the ganache to set before serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
