These Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of childhood memories, reminiscent of those delicious strawberry popsicles from the ice cream truck. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their vibrant flavor and fun textures. Layered with creamy frosting and topped with a crunchy strawberry mix, this dessert is both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic Flavor: These cupcakes bring back childhood memories with their delicious strawberry taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip these up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a summer gathering, these cupcakes fit right in.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors and textures make them a beautiful addition to any dessert table.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your cupcakes with fresh strawberries or other fruit toppings for added flair.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into making these Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes, having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixer
- Cupcake tin
- Paper liners
- Piping bag
- 2D Drop Flower Decorating Tip
- Mixing bowls
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixer: A mixer ensures that your batter is well combined without much effort.
- Cupcake tin: This holds the batter in shape while baking, resulting in perfectly structured cupcakes.
- Piping bag: Using a piping bag allows for easy and decorative frosting application on your cupcakes.
Ingredients
These Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes remind me of those amazing Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes popsicles that we use to get from the ice cream truck as kids!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 egg whites
– 1 1/3 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 box white cake mix
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sour cream (8oz container)
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 8 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream
– 12 fresh strawberries
– 20 Golden Oreos
– 3.4 oz box strawberry Jello powder
– 4 tablespoons butter, melted
How to Make Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This will ensure that your cupcakes bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In the bowl of a mixer:
1. Mix together the vegetable oil, egg whites, water, and vanilla. Mix on low for about 10 seconds.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet mixture while mixing on low until fully combined.
4. Add in the sour cream and mix well until smooth.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
- Line a muffin/cupcake tin with paper liners.
- Fill each cupcake liner about three-fourths full with batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 325°F for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- In the bowl of a mixer, cream together the softened butter until fluffy.
- Add in the softened cream cheese and mix well until combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously.
- Finally, add in the remaining vanilla and enough heavy cream to achieve desired consistency.
Step 5: Prepare Strawberry Crunch Topping
- Roughly crush the Golden Oreos in a bowl.
- Mix in the strawberry Jello powder and melted butter thoroughly until combined.
Step 6: Decorate Your Cupcakes
- Use a piping bag fitted with a 2D Drop Flower Decorating Tip to swirl frosting onto each cupcake.
- Sprinkle the strawberry crunch topping generously over each frosted cupcake.
- Finish off by topping each cupcake with a sliced fresh strawberry for extra flavor and decoration.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes!
How to Serve Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Serving Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes can elevate any occasion, from birthday parties to casual get-togethers. These delightful treats are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor, making them a perfect dessert choice.
For a Festive Celebration
- Decorate with Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a fun and festive look.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
As Part of a Dessert Table
- Arrange in Tiered Stands: Display your cupcakes on tiered cake stands to create an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Label Flavors: Use cute tags to label the flavors for guests; this adds a personal touch and helps everyone choose their favorite.
For Afternoon Tea
- Plate with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced fruits like strawberries and blueberries for a refreshing combo.
- Offer Tea Varieties: Pair these cupcakes with various tea options such as Earl Grey or green tea to complement the sweetness.
For Kids’ Parties
- Themed Decorations: Use themed decorations that match your party’s theme, making it more exciting for kids.
- Mini Versions: Make mini versions of the cupcakes for smaller hands; they’re just as delicious!
How to Perfect Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
To achieve the ultimate Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes, follow these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cupcakes light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before adding frosting; this prevents melting and ensures clean layers.
- Experiment with Flavorings: Consider adding almond extract or lemon zest to your batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Pairing side dishes with Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement the sweet flavors beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch pairs perfectly with sweet cupcakes, adding variety in texture.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a delicious contrast to the sugary cupcakes.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which can provide a creamy counterpoint to the sweet treats.
- Mini Cheesecakes: These bite-sized desserts offer richness that complements the lightness of the cupcakes.
- Nutty Granola Bars: They provide a healthy option that satisfies crunchy cravings while keeping with dessert vibes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes can be fun, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy results.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cupcakes. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
- Skipping the cooling step: Frosting warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before decorating.
- Using old ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale flour can affect texture and flavor. Check expiration dates before starting your recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
- Place cooled cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cupcakes on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cupcake individually for about 15-20 seconds on low power.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid to warm cupcakes gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes.
Can I use frozen strawberries in my cupcakes?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.
How do I make my cupcakes more strawberry-flavored?
You can add strawberry puree or extract for a stronger strawberry taste.
What should I do if my frosting is too runny?
Add more powdered sugar gradually until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I replace egg whites with something else?
Yes, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as an egg white substitute for a vegan option.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are not only delightful but also offer room for customization. You can add different fruits or adjust the sweetness according to your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nostalgic treat that brings joy to any occasion!
Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes
Indulge in the delightful nostalgia of Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes, a treat that perfectly encapsulates the sweetness of childhood summers and ice cream trucks. These vibrant cupcakes feature a moist strawberry-flavored base topped with creamy frosting and a crunchy strawberry mix, making them a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or simply treating yourself at home, these cupcakes promise to impress both the eyes and the taste buds. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable toppings, you can create your own version of this fruity delight!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 cupcakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 egg whites
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 8 cups powdered sugar
- 20 Golden Oreos
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry Jello powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixer bowl, combine vegetable oil, egg whites, water, and vanilla; mix on low for 10 seconds.
- In another bowl, mix cake mix, flour, sugar, and salt; gradually add to wet mixture until combined. Stir in sour cream until smooth.
- Fill cupcake liners three-fourths full with batter and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese until fluffy; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until desired consistency is reached.
- Crush Golden Oreos with strawberry Jello powder and melted butter for topping.
- Frost cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with crunch topping; garnish with fresh strawberries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (85g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
