If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that sings with fresh, vibrant flavors, look no further than this Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe. The unique pairing of juicy strawberries and fragrant basil creates a delightful twist on classic cupcakes, blending sweet fruitiness with a subtle herbal brightness. These cupcakes are light, moist, and crowned with a luscious strawberry-basil frosting, making them perfect for any occasion—whether a sunny brunch or a cozy afternoon tea with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet fresh ingredients is key to capturing the essence of this Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role: flour provides the tender crumb, strawberries add natural sweetness and color, basil brings its signature aromatic punch, and butter keeps everything wonderfully moist and rich.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cupcake, for a soft and delicate texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds the perfect balanced sweetness without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps your cupcakes rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to ensure lightness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors subtly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and tenderness in the batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure.
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed: Gives a burst of fruity flavor and lovely natural pink hue.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm complexity and depth.
- 1/4 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and smooth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped: Introduces a fresh, herbal contrast that complements strawberries beautifully.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: For the sweet, fluffy frosting that tops the cupcakes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped: Infuses the frosting with an herbal note.
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree: Adds color and flavor to the frosting.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens the frosting’s flavor.
- A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting perfectly.
How to Make Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners—this ensures easy cleanup and perfect cupcake shapes. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is the base that will create a light, airy crumb in your cupcakes.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Eggs
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth—it’s the secret to moist cupcakes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a fluffy structure.
Step 3: Incorporate Strawberry Puree and Vanilla
Next, gently mix in the fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract. The strawberry puree not only adds natural sweetness but also makes the batter beautifully pink, and the vanilla rounds out the flavors with warmth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, alternating with the whole milk. This careful mixing prevents overworking the batter, keeping the cupcakes tender and soft.
Step 5: Fold in Fresh Basil
Now, gently fold in the finely chopped basil. This step infuses the batter with a herby freshness that pairs perfectly with the strawberries, creating a cupcake flavor that’s truly one of a kind.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, signaling that your cupcakes are perfectly baked. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 7: Make the Frosting
Beat the softened butter until fluffy, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and luscious. Stir in the chopped basil, strawberry puree, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency with a splash more puree or milk if needed, achieving a creamy frosting that’s bursting with summer flavors.
Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes
Using a piping bag or spatula, frost the cooled cupcakes generously. Top with fresh basil leaves or thin slices of strawberry for that extra pop of color and flavor. Your Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves and thin strawberry slices make the perfect garnishes, adding visual appeal while reinforcing the cupcake’s flavor profile. Edible flowers are another charming option that complements the cupcakes beautifully for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a light beverage like iced green tea or a sparkling lemonade to balance their sweetness. A simple mixed berry fruit salad also works well, enhancing the fresh fruit experience without overshadowing the cupcakes.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving these cupcakes in clear glass trifle cups with layers of whipped cream and strawberry slices for an elegant look. Alternatively, create a cupcake bouquet for a stunning, edible centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, refrigeration is best, especially because of the fresh frosting.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To gently warm the cupcakes, especially after freezing, bring them to room temperature first. If you want a slightly warm cupcake, heat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, but avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh in this Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe?
Fresh basil is recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma, which complements the strawberries beautifully. Dried basil tends to be more concentrated and less fresh-tasting, so if you must use it, reduce the quantity and add cautiously.
Do I have to puree fresh strawberries, or can I use frozen?
Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen strawberries can work if well-thawed and drained. Puree them as you would fresh, but keep in mind frozen berries might add extra moisture that could slightly affect the cupcake texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, use a flax or chia egg replacement for the eggs, and swap dairy milk for plant-based milk like almond or oat. The strawberry and basil flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Can I make these cupcakes without the frosting?
Yes, the cupcakes themselves are delicious and moist enough to enjoy plain. However, the frosting enhances the overall flavor, adding sweetness and a lovely creamy texture that elevates the Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe to the next level.
How important is it to finely chop the basil?
Finely chopping the basil ensures it disperses evenly throughout the batter and frosting, giving subtle but consistent flavor. Larger pieces can be overpowering or cause uneven texture, so take the extra minute to chop it finely—you’ll be glad you did.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe is one of those joyful discoveries that will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The unexpected but perfectly balanced pairing of strawberry sweetness and herbal basil flair makes each bite memorable and delicious. I can’t wait for you to try these cupcakes and share the magic of fresh flavors with your friends and family.
Print
Strawberry Basil Cupcakes Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these fresh and flavorful Strawberry Basil Cupcakes, combining the sweet juiciness of strawberries with the aromatic touch of fresh basil. Perfectly moist cupcakes are topped with a creamy strawberry-basil frosting that adds a unique herbal note, making these treats ideal for spring or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Cream Butter and Eggs: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and achieve a light texture.
- Add Strawberry and Vanilla: Mix in the fresh strawberry puree and vanilla extract to bring a fruity and fragrant flavor base to the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Overmixing can toughen the cupcakes, so be gentle.
- Fold in Basil: Gently fold the finely chopped fresh basil into the batter, distributing it evenly for a herbal twist.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: Beat the softened unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor to Frosting: Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil, strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency by adding more puree or milk as needed to achieve a spreadable texture.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Use a piping bag or spatula to frost the cooled cupcakes evenly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or strawberry slices for an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened for easier creaming and a smoother batter and frosting.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Fresh basil adds a unique flavor; finely chop to distribute evenly.
- The strawberry puree can be strained for a smoother texture if desired.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
