Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cupcakes
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
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In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In another bowl, beat eggs, both sugars, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.
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Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in hot water or coffee — the batter will be thin.
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Divide batter evenly into 12 cupcake liners.
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Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Buttercream
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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
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Add 1 cup powdered sugar and beat in the strawberry powder or puree.
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Gradually add remaining sugar, vanilla, and a splash of milk or cream until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
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Pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes. Top with a fresh strawberry or chocolate shavings if desired.
Tips for Success
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Use freeze-dried strawberries for intense flavor without extra moisture.
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Add a chocolate ganache drizzle over the buttercream for an extra decadent touch.
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If using puree, reduce fresh strawberries down on the stove for a thicker, more concentrated flavor.
Variations
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Add a chocolate chunk center before baking for a molten surprise.
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Swap strawberry frosting for raspberry or cherry for a fruity twist.
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Top with chocolate-covered strawberries for next-level presentation.
Storage & Reheating
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Store: Keep frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
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Freeze: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes up to 2 months. Thaw and frost fresh.
What to Serve With
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Glass of milk or strawberry milk
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Strawberry champagne for adults
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Vanilla ice cream for a cupcake float dessert!
Nutrition Facts (Per Cupcake, Approximate)
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Calories: ~320 kcal
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Carbs: 38 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Sugar: 28 g
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Protein: 3 g
FAQs
Q: Can I make these with a box mix?
Yes! Use a chocolate cake mix for the base and just whip up the homemade strawberry frosting.
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries in the frosting?
You can, but you’ll need to cook them down into a thick reduction or use a strawberry jam to avoid watery frosting.
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Conclusion
These Strawberry Chocolate Cupcakes are as pretty as they are indulgent — the perfect blend of rich cocoa and sweet berry bliss. Bake them for loved ones, special occasions, or just because you deserve something sweet and homemade. Want to take them over the top? Add a strawberry center or dip the whole cupcake in ganache. You’re welcome. 💕
