introduction

These cupcakes mix rich chocolate and fresh red berries. They feel fun to make. They taste like a small cake and a sweet fruit. Try a similar treat like easy berry brownies for more chocolate and fruit ideas.

why make this recipe

You can make this for a small party or a quiet night. The cake stays soft and the berry adds a fresh bite. Kids and grown ups like the look and taste. This recipe also pairs well with a simple drink or coffee, so you get a full treat. See a quick party idea at party treat.

how to make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes

Ingredients :

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Eggs
Whole milk
Vegetable oil
Vanilla extract
Boiling water
Fresh strawberries
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Heavy cream
Butter
Powdered sugar
You can read small notes on tools and steps in cupcake tips.

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a cupcake tray with paper liners so the cupcakes will not stick.
In a large bowl whisk the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they mix well.
In another bowl mix the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla until the mix looks smooth.
Pour the wet mix into the dry mix and stir slowly until a thick chocolate batter forms.
Carefully pour in the boiling water and stir gently until the batter is smooth, shiny, and a little thin.
Pour the batter into the liners. Fill each about two thirds full so they can rise.
Bake for about twenty minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack so they do not melt the frosting later.
While the cupcakes cool, wash and dry the strawberries and set them aside.
In a heatproof bowl melt the chocolate chips with heavy cream in a microwave or over simmering water. Stir until smooth and shiny.
Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate until it is half covered. Place them on parchment to set.
To make the frosting beat the butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and a little vanilla until the texture is fluffy and smooth.
Pipe or spread the frosting on each cooled cupcake.
Once the chocolate on the strawberries is set, place one chocolate covered strawberry on top of each cupcake and press it gently into the frosting.
Drizzle leftover melted chocolate over the cupcakes for extra shine.
Let the cupcakes sit for about ten minutes before you serve so the frosting sets and the cupcakes are ready to enjoy.

how to serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes

Place the cupcakes on a simple plate or a small tray. Serve at room warm or a little cool. You can add a sprinkle of cocoa or small mint leaves for a fresh look. For more ideas on how to show sweets, see serve ideas.

how to store Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes

Keep the cupcakes in a cool place or the fridge. Use an air tight box. If you chill them, bring them to room warm before you eat so the cake feels soft. Store them for two to three days in the fridge.

tips to make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes

Use ripe but firm strawberries so they hold up on top.
Let the cupcakes cool fully before you add frosting.
Use a spoon or a small bag to pipe the frosting for a neat look.
Warm the chocolate slowly to keep it smooth.
For more small help and notes try more tips.

variation (if any)

Use white chocolate for a sweet, pale top.
Add a little lemon zest to the frosting for a bright taste.
Use milk chocolate for a softer sweet flavor.
Replace strawberries with raspberries for a tart note.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: No. Frozen fruit gets soft and wet when it thaws. Use fresh firm berries.

Q: Can I make the cakes a day ahead?
A: Yes. Bake them and keep them cool. Frost and top them the next day.

Q: Can I skip the cream in the chocolate dip?
A: You can melt only chocolate, but a little cream makes it smooth and shiny.

Q: How do I know the cupcakes are done?
A: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are done.

Q: Can I freeze these cupcakes?
A: Yes. Freeze without the fresh berry. Thaw and add fresh strawberry when ready.

Conclusion

For another clear step by step version and more photos, see Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes | Life Love and Sugar.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes