Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that feels indulgent and festive, the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe is your perfect new go-to. These cupcakes marry rich, moist chocolate cake with a luscious strawberry buttercream center, all smothered in a silky chocolate ganache and topped with the fresh sweetness of ripe strawberries. It’s like having a chocolate-covered strawberry you can bite into with both hands, only better because it’s a cupcake! This recipe blends classic flavors with a clever surprise inside, making every bite a delightful adventure.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Trust me when I say the ingredients here are straightforward but pack a punch. Each one plays a vital role—from the rich cocoa powder that deepens the chocolate flavor to the freeze-dried strawberries that bring that unmistakable tart berry note straight into the frosting. These essentials ensure your cupcakes have the perfect balance of texture, taste, and visual appeal.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of a tender cupcake crumb that holds everything together.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate richness without any added sweetness.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Works with baking soda to give just the right lift.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with texture.
• 1 large egg: Adds structure and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and keeps the crumb soft.
• 1/2 cup hot coffee or water: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and smooths the batter.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Base for the luscious strawberry buttercream.
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting.
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (ground into powder): Gives your buttercream a natural strawberry punch.
• 1–2 tbsp heavy cream: Makes the buttercream silky and spreadable.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the strawberry frosting’s flavor.
• Pinch of salt (optional): Balances sweetness in the frosting perfectly.
• 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped: For the smooth, shiny chocolate ganache topping.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Combined with chocolate to create that luscious ganache.
• Fresh strawberry slices or chocolate-dipped strawberries: For a gorgeous, fresh garnish.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners to make sure your cupcakes come out perfectly without sticking and can cool nicely once baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures all the leavening agents and flavors are evenly distributed for that perfect cupcake texture every time.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth. This mixture will give your cupcakes moisture and sweetness.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to keep your cupcakes tender and avoid a dense crumb.

Step 5: Add Hot Coffee or Water

Stir in hot coffee or water carefully until the batter is smooth; this step elevates the chocolate flavor, making it more intense and luscious.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Fill your cupcake liners halfway with batter and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before moving on—it’s worth the wait!

Step 7: Make the Strawberry Buttercream

Beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and the freeze-dried strawberry powder. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add a pinch of salt if you feel the sweetness needs balancing.

Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Place the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream until it just simmers, then pour over the chopped chocolate. Let this mixture sit for 2–3 minutes before stirring until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool to a spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Fill the Cupcakes with Strawberry Buttercream

Cut a small cone-shaped piece out of the center of each cooled cupcake, creating a little cavity. Fill this hollow with the luscious strawberry buttercream and then replace the top piece.

Step 10: Top with Ganache and Garnish

Spread the chocolate ganache over the top of each cupcake for a shiny, decadent finish. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or chocolate-dipped strawberries for that eye-catching final touch.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh strawberry slices always add a pop of vibrant color and natural sweetness, while chocolate-dipped strawberries lend a touch of elegance and extra chocolate flavor. Either way, garnishes elevate the entire dessert experience and make your cupcakes a real showstopper.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of fresh berries to balance the richness with some cool, fruity freshness. A cup of robust coffee or tea also pairs beautifully, cutting through the creamy chocolate and berry flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try placing these cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand for a stunning presentation or wrap each cupcake with a decorative foil liner to gift them beautifully. For parties, consider adding edible gold leaf or dusting with powdered sugar to make your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe even more mesmerizing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the buttercream and ganache’s perfect texture without drying out the cake itself.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. For the best results, thaw completely before frosting and assembling your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe.

Reheating

Since these are rich and delicate, it’s best to enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer them slightly warm, let them sit out for 30 minutes to take the chill off. Avoid microwaving as it may ruin the ganache texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries in the frosting instead of freeze-dried strawberries?

Fresh strawberries contain more water, which can make the buttercream too runny. Freeze-dried strawberry powder is what gives the frosting a concentrated berry flavor without altering its texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk? Can I substitute it?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, letting it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

How do I keep the chocolate ganache shiny and smooth?

Use good-quality chocolate and heat the cream just until simmering, not boiling. Stir gently after pouring and cool the ganache to a spreadable state before applying it to the cupcakes.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe uses dairy and eggs, but you can experiment by using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might change slightly but you’ll still get a delicious cupcake.

Is it necessary to fill the cupcakes with strawberry buttercream?

While the filling adds a wonderful surprise and flavor dimension, you can absolutely skip it and simply frost the cupcakes if you’re short on time or prefer a simpler version.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something so irresistible about the combination of chocolate and strawberries, and this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, these cupcakes will bring smiles all around. I hope you give this recipe a try because once you do, it’s sure to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire!

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