Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

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Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes. Bursting with the flavors of fresh strawberries and zesty lemon, these cupcakes are a delightful treat for any occasion. Filled with creamy lemon pudding and topped with strawberry and lemon buttercream frosting, they are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

Cupcakes:

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup water
  • ½ cup vegetable oil

Filling:

  • 3.4 oz. box instant lemon pudding
  • 1½ cups milk
  • 4 oz. Cool Whip (or 8 oz. for leftovers)

Frosting:

  • 1 cup shortening (or unsalted butter)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 7-8 tsp. water or milk
  • ½ tsp. strawberry extract
  • Few drops pink food coloring
  • ½ tsp. lemon extract
  • Few drops yellow food coloring

Directions:

Cupcakes:

  1. Bake the cupcakes according to the directions on the box. Allow them to cool completely, then remove the centers of each cupcake. You can freeze the centers for later use in other dessert recipes.

Filling: 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding powder with milk until thoroughly mixed. Fold in the Cool Whip and allow the pudding mixture to set up in the refrigerator for 5 minutes.

  1. Fill a pastry bag with the prepared pudding mixture, then cut the tip off. Fill each cupcake to the top with the lemon pudding filling.

Frosting: 4. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the shortening until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and water or milk in batches, alternating between the two until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the amount of water for the desired consistency.

  1. Divide the frosting into separate bowls. In one bowl, add the strawberry extract and pink food coloring. In the other bowl, add the lemon extract and yellow food coloring.
  2. Using clear wrap, create a strip of strawberry frosting down the center and a strip of lemon frosting on top of the strawberry frosting. Seal the clear wrap tightly, then cut off one end. Drop the cut end into a prepared pastry bag fitted with Wilton’s tip 2D or 1M. Repeat the process with the remaining frosting.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 20 minutes | Cooling Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Calories: 361 kcal per cupcake

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Presentation Matters: Arrange the Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes on a decorative platter or cake stand for an eye-catching presentation. Garnish with fresh strawberries or lemon slices for a festive touch.
  2. Pairing Suggestions: Serve these delightful cupcakes alongside a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or a fruity iced tea for a perfectly balanced flavor combination. The tartness of the lemonade complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
  3. Variety Plate: Create a dessert platter featuring a variety of cupcakes, including these Strawberry Lemonade ones, along with other flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or red velvet. This allows guests to sample different flavors and find their favorite.
  4. Dessert Buffet: If hosting a party or special event, consider setting up a dessert buffet featuring an assortment of desserts, including these cupcakes. Add other sweet treats like cookies, brownies, and fruit tarts for a diverse selection.

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent the cupcakes from drying out.
  2. Refrigeration: If the weather is warm or if your kitchen is particularly humid, you may opt to store the cupcakes in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any odors.
  3. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 1-2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
  4. Frosting Considerations: If the cupcakes are frosted, be mindful of how you store them to preserve the frosting’s texture and appearance. Avoid stacking frosted cupcakes on top of each other to prevent smudging or flattening of the frosting.
  5. Filling Freshness: Since these cupcakes are filled with lemon pudding, consume them within a few days to ensure the filling remains fresh and creamy. Refrigerate any leftover filled cupcakes to maintain the pudding’s texture.

Variations:

  1. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Top each cupcake with a fresh strawberry dipped in melted chocolate for an elegant and decadent twist. The combination of chocolate and strawberries adds richness to the cupcakes.
  2. Lemon Curd Filling: Replace the lemon pudding filling with tangy lemon curd for a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Fill each cupcake with a spoonful of lemon curd for a refreshing and zesty surprise.
  3. Berry Medley Topping: Decorate the frosted cupcakes with a variety of fresh berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful and vibrant presentation. The combination of sweet strawberries and tart berries creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
  4. Coconut Lemonade Cupcakes: Add shredded coconut to the cupcake batter for a tropical twist on the classic recipe. Top the frosted cupcakes with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
  5. Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the buttercream frosting for a tangy lemon cream cheese frosting. Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes for a luscious and indulgent treat.
  6. Strawberry-Lemonade Drizzle: Drizzle the frosted cupcakes with a homemade strawberry-lemonade glaze made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and mashed strawberries. The glaze adds extra sweetness and tanginess to the cupcakes.
  7. Almond Lemon Cupcakes: Add almond extract to the cupcake batter for a hint of nutty flavor that complements the strawberries and lemon. Top the frosted cupcakes with sliced almonds for an elegant finishing touch.
  8. Mascarpone Frosting: Whip together mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Spread or pipe the creamy mascarpone frosting onto the cupcakes for a luxurious and indulgent treat.
  9. Strawberry-Lemonade Cupcake Trifle: Crumble unfrosted cupcakes and layer them in a trifle dish with whipped cream or lemon mousse, diced strawberries, and lemon curd. Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, then refrigerate until set. Serve chilled for a refreshing and elegant dessert.
  10. Grilled Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes: For a unique twist, grill fresh strawberries before incorporating them into the cupcake batter. The grilled strawberries add a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon and sweet strawberries.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of a cake mix for the cupcakes? Yes, you can use fresh strawberries to make homemade strawberry cupcakes instead of a cake mix. Simply puree fresh strawberries and incorporate them into your favorite cupcake batter recipe.
  2. Can I use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for the filling? Yes, you can substitute whipped cream for Cool Whip in the lemon pudding filling. However, keep in mind that whipped cream may not hold its shape as well as Cool Whip, so the filling may be softer.
  3. Can I make the cupcakes in advance and freeze them before filling and frosting? Yes, you can bake the cupcakes in advance and freeze them before filling and frosting. Ensure that the cupcakes are completely cooled before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
  4. Can I use butter instead of shortening for the frosting? Yes, you can use unsalted butter instead of shortening for the frosting. However, keep in mind that butter may result in a slightly different texture and flavor compared to shortening.
  5. How can I prevent the frosting colors from blending together in the pastry bag? To prevent the frosting colors from blending together in the pastry bag, ensure that each color is placed side by side in a strip on a sheet of clear wrap. Roll the wrap tightly, then cut off one end before inserting it into the pastry bag.
  6. Can I omit the food coloring from the frosting? Yes, you can omit the food coloring from the frosting if desired. The frosting will still have the same delicious flavor, but it may not have the vibrant pink and yellow colors.
  7. How long will the filled and frosted cupcakes last? Filled and frosted cupcakes should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
  8. Can I use a different type of pudding for the filling? Yes, you can use a different flavor of instant pudding for the filling if you prefer. Vanilla or white chocolate pudding would be delicious alternatives to lemon pudding.

Enjoy these delightful and festive Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes for any occasion! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bridal shower, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cupcakes are sure to brighten up your day with their fruity flavors and creamy texture. Try them out and let your taste buds dance with joy!