Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes You’ll Love to Make!

Posted on January 30, 2026

There’s nothing quite like the sweet scent of strawberries mingling with a hint of vanilla wafting through your kitchen on a sun-kissed afternoon. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Moist Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy cupcake bursting with fresh strawberry goodness, topped with a light, creamy frosting that feels like a cloud on your palate.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a personal treat, these cupcakes are your go-to solution. They embody the joy of homemade food, combining simple, fresh ingredients to create a dessert that dazzles without demanding hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to modify to fit dietary preferences, making them accessible for everyone. Trust me, once you make these cupcakes, they’ll be the sought-after highlight of every occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a little magic to your baking!

Why are Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes a Must-Try?

Deliciously Fluffy: Each bite offers a light, airy texture that’s incredibly satisfying, perfect for any dessert lover.
Bursting with Freshness: Made with real strawberries, these cupcakes radiate the sweetest summer vibes.
Versatile & Adaptable: Whether you need a dairy-free option or want to add a zesty twist with lemon, this recipe accommodates all tastes.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time means you can whip these up for unexpected guests or a sweet craving at a moment’s notice.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cupcakes are loved by kids and adults alike, ensuring they’ll disappear quickly at gatherings! Don’t forget to serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or take inspiration from my wonderful Strawberry Cheesecake Bars for an extra special treat!

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcake Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

All-Purpose Flour – Structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and moisture; can reduce for less sweetness or substitute with coconut sugar.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutes necessary.
Unsalted Butter – Fat for moisture and richness; substitute with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.
Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; you can use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Milk – Moisture and richness; non-dairy milk like almond or oat works as a substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Flavor enhancement; substitute with almond extract if desired.
Fresh Strawberries – Flavor and natural sweetness; you can use thawed frozen strawberries or strawberry jam if fresh isn’t available.

For the Frosting

Unsalted Butter – Creates a creamy base for the frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and a velvety texture; sift before use for a smoother frosting.
Milk or Non-Dairy Milk – Adjusts the consistency; add gradually until you reach the desired creaminess.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting flavor; feel free to adjust to your liking.

Make sure to gather all these delightful ingredients before you start creating your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cupcakes rise beautifully while baking. Line a muffin tin with colorful cupcake liners to add a cheerful touch!
Whisk dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This combination will give your cupcakes structure and an irresistible sweetness.
Cream butter: Beat in the softened unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential for adding richness to your cupcakes, so take your time!
Mix wet ingredients: Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined, creating the dreamy cupcake batter.
Fold in strawberries: Gently fold in chopped, well-drained fresh strawberries. This will infuse the batter with delightful chunks of fruit, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite.
Fill cupcake liners: Distribute the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This will ensure they have plenty of room to rise!
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking!
Cool and frost: Once baked, let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. Prepare your frosting and then frost each cooled cupcake generously.

Optional: Top with a slice of fresh strawberry for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Keep unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain moisture. Frost just before serving for the best texture.

Fridge: If you need to store frosted cupcakes, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for optimal flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.

Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave the cupcakes for 10-15 seconds until just warmed through, enhancing their moist texture and fresh flavor.

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cupcakes by customizing them to suit your taste buds!

Lemon Zest: Add bright, citrusy lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with strawberries. A little bit of zing goes a long way!
Crumbled Shortcake: Top the cupcakes with crumbled shortcake biscuits for added texture and a fun nod to the classic dessert. It’s like serving nostalgia on a cupcake!
Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a richer flavor explosion that adds a hint of decadence to your strawberry bliss. Everyone loves a surprise!
Non-Dairy Option: Substitute dairy butter and milk with their non-dairy counterparts to create a deliciously dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can join in the fun!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the cupcakes. It’s a satisfying contrast and adds another layer of flavor.
Spicy Twist: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising warmth that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries. Just a hint will do the trick!
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries mixed in with the strawberries for a colorful, fruity medley that celebrates summer. The more, the merrier!
Mini Cupcakes: For bite-sized treats, make mini versions of the cupcakes. They’re perfect for sharing and allow everyone to try each variation! Who can resist a mini treat?

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. To maintain the freshness of the strawberries, avoid folding them in until you’re ready to bake—the batter can be refrigerated without them. If you’d prefer, you can also bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just frost them right before serving for that light, creamy texture. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delectable dessert ready with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes?

A delightful dessert can shine even brighter with the right companions to create a memorable meal experience.

Whipped Cream: This classic topping adds a rich, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the lightness of the cupcakes. A dollop on top takes every bite to the next level of indulgence!
Vanilla Ice Cream: The sweet, creamy texture against the strawberry flavors of the cupcakes creates an irresistible combination. Imagine bites of cupcake melting into delicious ice cream—pure bliss!
Fresh Strawberries: Serve alongside whole, fresh strawberries for that extra burst of fruity flavor and a pop of color on the plate. They’re the perfect garnish!
Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a refreshing touch and a vibrant color contrast that elevates the presentation. Plus, the cool, herby notes compliment the sweetness of the cupcakes!
Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade balances the sweetness with its zesty punch, creating a refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm days.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For those craving something richer, a thicker cream cheese frosting can be an exciting alternative to vanilla frosting. It pairs beautifully with the light cupcake base.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add a decadent twist that will impress your guests. The smooth, rich chocolate contrasts gorgeously with the fruity flavors of the cupcakes.

These pairings will enhance your dessert experience, encourage lively conversation, and create lasting memories around the dining table!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

Strawberry Drainage: Ensure your strawberries are well-drained after chopping; excess moisture can lead to soggy cupcakes, ruining their texture.
Mixing Method: Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can create dense cupcakes instead of the light, fluffy Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes you desire.
Oven Calibration: Keep a close eye on your oven temperature; investing in an oven thermometer can help prevent over-baking and ensure your cupcakes remain moist.
Enhance Flavor: For an extra flavor kick, feel free to add an additional splash of vanilla extract both to the batter and the frosting.
Storage Solutions: If you’re not frosting right away, store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container; this will keep them moist for up to two days.

Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

How can I tell if my strawberries are ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid berries that have dark spots or a mushy texture, as these indicate they may be overripe. The ideal strawberry will have a sweet aroma, signaling that they’re ready to shine in your Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes!

What’s the best way to store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes?
Very simple! If you have leftover cupcakes, keep the unfrosted ones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, if they’re frosted, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before savoring to enjoy their full flavor.

Can I freeze Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes?
Absolutely! To freeze your unfrosted Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes, place them in a single layer within a freezer-safe container, separating each cupcake with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature, and then frost just before serving!

What should I do if my cupcakes turn out too dense?
Don’t worry! If your cupcakes come out too dense, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure you didn’t overmix the batter; this can develop gluten and makes cupcakes heavy. Also, check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to denser outcomes. Next time, mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.

Are these Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can easily modify this recipe to accommodate different dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. For a vegan twist, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly. Just follow the substitutions listed in the ingredients for a delicious treat everyone can enjoy!

Print Pin