Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are soft, fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with fresh strawberries and light whipped cream, bringing all the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake into a perfectly portioned dessert.

They’re sweet, fresh, and incredibly easy to make, which makes them ideal for parties, birthdays, or any time you want a dessert that feels special without being complicated.

If you love traditional strawberry shortcake, these cupcakes deliver the same nostalgic flavor in a fun, handheld form that everyone loves.

Why These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes Are a Favorite

Strawberry shortcake has always been one of those desserts that instantly feels like spring and summer.

Growing up, it was the dessert that showed up at family gatherings once strawberries were at their best. These strawberry shortcake cupcakes capture that same comforting flavor — but with less mess and no slicing required.

They’re light, not overly sweet, and topped with a cloud of whipped cream that pairs perfectly with juicy strawberries. Every bite tastes fresh, homemade, and bakery-worthy.

What Makes These Cupcakes So Good

These cupcakes work beautifully because of their balance:

They’re indulgent without being heavy, which is why people always reach for seconds.

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are soft, fluffy vanilla cupcakes topped with fresh strawberries and light whipped cream, bringing all the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake into a perfectly portioned dessert.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• Butter softened – adds richness and flavor
• Sugar – sweetens while keeping the cupcakes light
• Eggs – provide structure
• Vanilla Extract – enhances the classic shortcake flavor
• All-Purpose Flour – creates a soft cupcake base
• Baking Powder – helps the cupcakes rise
• Milk or Buttermilk – keeps the cupcakes moist
• Salt – balances sweetness
• Fresh Strawberries chopped – the star of the recipe
• Sugar – lightly sweetens and helps release juices
• Heavy Whipping Cream – for a light fluffy topping
• Powdered Sugar – gently sweetens
• Vanilla Extract – adds flavor

Method

 

1. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gently mix in the dry ingredients and milk just until combined.
2. Divide the batter into a lined cupcake pan and bake until the cupcakes are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
3. While the cupcakes cool, toss chopped strawberries with a small amount of sugar. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes so they become juicy and flavorful.
4. Beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Keep chilled until ready to use.
5. Top each cupcake with whipped cream and spoon the strawberries over the top. Add extra strawberry juice for even more flavor.

Tips for Perfect Cupcakes Every Time

These small details help keep the cupcakes light and beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best, but thawed frozen strawberries can be used if well-drained.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the cupcakes in advance and add the toppings right before serving.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

You can, but homemade whipped cream gives the best flavor and texture.

Are these cupcakes very sweet?

No. The fresh strawberries and light cream keep them perfectly balanced.