Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup whole milk
1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
For the Cheesecake Filling:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
For the Strawberry Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Gently fold in the finely chopped strawberries.
Divide the cupcake batter evenly among the liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Using a piping bag or a small spoon, add a dollop of the cheesecake filling into the center of each cupcake.
Bake the cupcakes for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the cheesecake is set and the cupcakes are done. A toothpick inserted into the cupcake portion should come out clean.
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more powdered sugar if needed.
Assembly:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting on top of the cupcakes using your preferred decorating tip.
Optionally, garnish with fresh strawberry slices or a whole strawberry on top for a delightful and fruity touch.
These Cheesecake-Filled Strawberry Cupcakes combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. They’re perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a delicious and beautiful dessert. Enjoy the surprise cheesecake center in every bite!