Sweet Strawberry Cupcakes with Whipped Pink Frosting and Fresh Fruit

Sweet Strawberry Cupcakes with Whipped Pink Frosting and Fresh Fruit are light, fruity, and absolutely beautiful. Each bite is packed with real strawberry flavor, topped with a soft swirl of pink whipped frosting, and finished with fresh fruit for a naturally sweet and colorful finish. These cupcakes are my go-to when I want something pretty, playful, and perfect for spring and summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these cupcakes because they combine a soft, moist crumb with real strawberry flavor and a delicate whipped frosting that isn’t too heavy or overly sweet. They’re fun to decorate with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, and they look just as good as they taste. Whether I make them for birthdays, showers, or a simple afternoon treat, they always bring a smile.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cupcakes:

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Fresh strawberries, pureed

• Milk or buttermilk

For the whipped pink frosting:

• Heavy whipping cream

• Powdered sugar

• Vanilla extract

• Strawberry jam or puree (for flavor and color)

• Red or pink food coloring (optional, for a deeper color)

For garnish:

• Fresh strawberries, halved or sliced

• Raspberries, blueberries, or any other fresh berries

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

2. In one bowl, I whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together.

3. In another bowl, I cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs and vanilla.

4. I stir in the strawberry puree, then alternate adding the flour mixture and milk until just combined.

5. I fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. I let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

For the frosting:

7. I whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

8. I gently fold in the strawberry jam or puree for flavor and color. I add a drop of food coloring if I want a brighter pink.

9. I pipe or spread the frosting over cooled cupcakes and top with fresh fruit.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. Prep time is about 20 minutes, baking takes around 20 minutes, and cooling/frosting adds another 20–30 minutes. I usually have them ready in just over an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped strawberries to the batter for extra fruitiness. For a richer flavor, I’ve used a cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream. I also love filling the cupcakes with a dollop of strawberry jam before frosting for a surprise center.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cupcakes in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed at room temperature, so I let them sit out for about 10–15 minutes before serving. These cupcakes don’t reheat—they’re best served cool or lightly chilled.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, I thaw them completely and puree them. I drain off any excess liquid if it’s too watery.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, I make it a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. I give it a quick whip before using if it settles.

How do I keep the cupcakes moist?

I don’t overbake them, and I use buttermilk or milk with a splash of vinegar to help keep them tender.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and they turn out great.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

I freeze the unfrosted cupcakes, then thaw and frost them fresh. I don’t recommend freezing with whipped cream frosting.

Conclusion

Sweet Strawberry Cupcakes with Whipped Pink Frosting and Fresh Fruit are as beautiful as they are delicious. They’re soft, flavorful, and bursting with fresh strawberry goodness. Whether I’m baking for a party, a picnic, or just because, these cupcakes always make the moment feel a little more special.