Name: Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ cup whole milk; 2 cups strawberries, chopped (for compote); ⅓ cup sugar (for compote); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream); 12 whole strawberries (for topping)

These irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are what sweet dreams are made of. Moist vanilla cupcakes are filled with a luscious strawberry compote, topped with a swirl of whipped cream frosting, and crowned with a juicy whole strawberry. Every bite delivers the perfect harmony of light cake, fresh fruit, and silky cream.

Perfect for springtime brunches, garden parties, or anytime you want a treat that looks as good as it tastes, these cupcakes are a celebration of strawberries in their finest form. They’re simple to make but feel extra special—the kind of dessert that impresses without stress.

What Kind of Strawberries Should I Use?

For the best flavor and color, use fresh, ripe strawberries. If it’s strawberry season, head to your local farmer’s market for berries that burst with natural sweetness. Frozen strawberries can be used for the compote if fresh ones aren’t available, but always opt for fresh for topping.

Ingredients for the Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Vanilla Cupcake Base: Acts as the soft, fluffy foundation for the shortcake flavor.
Strawberry Compote: A cooked-down mixture of strawberries and sugar that adds juicy fruitiness and a gorgeous red color.
Whipped Cream Frosting: Light and airy, this balances the sweetness and brings a creamy finish.
Whole Fresh Strawberries: Placed on top for a beautiful, fresh garnish that adds both wow factor and flavor.

How To Make the Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Step 1: Bake the Vanilla Cupcakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. Prepare your favorite vanilla cupcake batter and fill each liner about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Compote

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of chopped strawberries with 1/3 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook until thickened and jammy, about 10 minutes. Cool completely.

Step 3: Core and Fill the Cupcakes

Use a cupcake corer or knife to remove the center of each cupcake. Spoon the cooled strawberry compote into the hole of each cupcake.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

Beat 1 cup of cold heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a piping bag.

Step 5: Decorate

Pipe the whipped cream frosting generously on top of each filled cupcake. Finish with a spoonful of extra compote and a whole fresh strawberry.

Storing and Serving These Cupcakes

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are best enjoyed the day they’re made, especially because of the fresh whipped cream topping. However, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow them to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

What to Serve With Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes?

Fresh Lemonade

A cold glass of lemonade enhances the fruity freshness of these cupcakes.

Iced Matcha Latte

The earthy notes of matcha balance the sweetness beautifully.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

For a themed brunch, pair with Strawberry Spinach Salad to play up the berry motif.

Classic Cherry Delight

If you’re building a dessert table, add Classic Cherry Delight for a cherry twist.

Nutella French Toast Casserole

Perfect for brunch parties alongside these cupcakes. Try the Nutella French Toast Casserole!

Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Need something savory first? Serve this Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl for contrast.

Want More Cupcake Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, you’ll fall in love with these other fun and flavorful desserts:

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes for cozy spice flavor in cupcake form.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you’re craving creamy meets cinnamon swirl.
Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake for berry-chocolate indulgence.
Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you love layered richness.
Strawberry Cheesecake Bundt Cake for an elegant, berry-filled centerpiece.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swirl extra compote into the cream? Maybe a chocolate drizzle on top? I love hearing how others put their own spin on these.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and indulgent desserts on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest—your go-to for sweet inspiration!

Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Light, fruity, and utterly delightful, these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are your next show-stopping treat. A soft vanilla cupcake base is filled with homemade strawberry compote and topped with luscious whipped cream and a fresh strawberry. Perfect for spring gatherings, brunches, or when you’re simply craving something sweet and refreshing. This easy recipe checks all the boxes: quick dessert, family-friendly, and ideal for birthday parties or summer picnics. If you’re on the lookout for new dessert ideas or sweet food ideas that come together easily, this one’s a must-try!