Name: Delightful Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes for Sweet Summer Days
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 228 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Buttermilk (Can substitute with plain yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Melted coconut oil or butter can be used.); 1 large Egg (For vegan version, use a flax egg.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.); 1 cup All-purpose Flour (A gluten-free flour blend can be used.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index alternative.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Ensure it is fresh for optimal results.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Warm Water; 3 tablespoons Strawberry Gelatin (Use sugar-free gelatin for a lighter option.); 1 cup Vanilla Oreos (Gluten-free options are fine.); 1/2 cup Freeze-dried Strawberries (Crushed nuts can be a tasty alternative.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Swap for a dairy-free alternative for vegan options.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Vegan cream cheese also works.); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Use less for a less-sweet finish.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Feel free to omit if you prefer.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I was rummaging through my childhood memories, longing for the taste of summer, one treat always stood out—the beloved strawberry crunch ice cream bars. Inspired by that nostalgia, I created these Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes, and they are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will transport you back to those carefree days. Each moist, strawberry-infused cupcake is adorned with a creamy frosting and a tantalizing crunch, making them not only a sweet indulgence but also a surefire hit for birthday parties or summer gatherings. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy sunny moments with friends and family. Are you ready to relive that summer magic?

Why are Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes a must-try?

Nostalgic Delight: These cupcakes evoke the sweet memories of childhood favorite strawberry crunch ice cream bars, making them perfect for any age.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can enjoy homemade goodness without the fuss.
Eye-Catching Treat: Their vibrant pink color and delightful crunch add an enticing visual appeal, sure to impress guests at parties.
Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up flavors or toppings to suit your taste—consider trying the strawberry cheesecake version with Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake for a change.
Perfect for Summer: These cupcakes are the ultimate summer dessert; pair with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade for a delightful combination.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a picnic or birthday party, these Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are sure to become a favorite among friends and family!

Strawberry Crunch Cupcake Ingredients

For the Cupcakes
• Buttermilk – Provides moisture and richness to the cupcakes; substitute with plain yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; melted coconut oil or butter works as a great substitute.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds structure; for a vegan version, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• All-purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be used instead.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes; coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index alternative.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Salt – Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.
• Warm Water – Activates ingredients and helps blend the batter.
• Strawberry Gelatin – Imparts that nostalgic strawberry flavor; use sugar-free gelatin for a lighter option.

For the Crunch Topping
• Vanilla Oreos – Creates the desired crunchy topping; any vanilla sandwich cookies or gluten-free options are fine.
• Freeze-dried Strawberries – Adds crunch; crushed nuts can be a tasty alternative.

For the Frosting
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to both cupcakes and frosting; swap for a dairy-free alternative for vegan options.
• Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy frosting; vegan cream cheese also works.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; use less for a less-sweet finish.
• Cornstarch – Stabilizes the frosting; feel free to omit if you prefer.

These Strawberry Crunch Cupcake ingredients will help you recreate that childhood magic in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare a muffin pan by lining each cup with paper liners. This will prevent the Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes from sticking and give them a beautiful presentation when they’re done baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for even distribution of the leavening agents, which will help your cupcakes rise beautifully. Set this bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until they are fully blended together, creating a luscious mixture. Once combined, gently fold this mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix to maintain the lightness of your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes.

Step 4: Add Warm Water
Gradually mix in the warm water to the batter, stirring until just combined. The mixture should be smooth but not overly stirred. This addition helps activate the ingredients, creating a moist and fluffy cupcake. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any flour that may have clung to them.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Using a scoop or spoon, carefully fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter. This ensures there is enough room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing. Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For a quicker cooling process, you can place them in the refrigerator for a few minutes, allowing you to move onto the next steps of the Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes soon.

Step 7: Prepare the Gelatin
In a small bowl, combine boiling water with the strawberry gelatin and stir until fully dissolved. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly while you poke the cooled cupcakes, making room for the flavorful gelatin infusion that will enhance the strawberry taste of your cupcakes.

Step 8: Poke the Cupcakes
Using a fork, gently poke holes across the top of each cooled cupcake. This is an essential step, as it allows the strawberry gelatin to seep into the cupcakes, infusing them with a rich strawberry flavor that will elevate your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes beyond the ordinary.

Step 9: Inject the Gelatin
Pour the prepared strawberry gelatin evenly over the tops of the cupcakes, ensuring it fills the holes you just created. Allow the cupcakes to chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, giving the gelatin enough time to set and the flavors to meld beautifully in each bite.

Step 10: Make the Crunch Topping
While the cupcakes are setting, prepare the crunchy topping by processing the vanilla Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter in a food processor until crumbly. This will create a delightful texture that complements the soft cupcakes. Set aside the mixture to use once your frosting is ready.

Step 11: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and cornstarch until well blended, achieving a fluffy and tangy frosting. This frosting will provide a beautiful contrast to the crunchy topping and moist cupcakes.

Step 12: Decorate the Cupcakes
Finally, pipe the creamy frosting onto each cupcake, creating a beautiful swirl on top. Dip the frosted cupcakes into the crunchy topping mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. For an extra touch, swirl on a dollop of frosting atop the crunchy layer, making your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes not only delicious but visually stunning as well.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

Fridge: Store your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and moist, perfect for enjoying whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, these cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen cupcakes, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving. This will ensure they retain their delightful texture and flavor.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm cupcake, gently microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. Just be sure to remove any crunchy topping first to avoid sogginess!

Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes Variations

Feel free to personalize your cupcakes and let your creativity shine with these delightful twists!

Vegan Swap: Replace eggs with a flax egg and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a completely vegan treat.
For a plant-based version, the flax egg provides a perfect binding agent, maintaining the cupcake’s moistness.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cupcakes without the gluten.
Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate the thoughtful adaptation while savoring all the delightful flavors.
Berry Blast: Experiment with raspberry or blueberry gelatin for a different fruity flavor in your cupcakes.
The swap will bring a refreshing twist that captures the essence of summer berries.
Chocolate Delight: Add cocoa powder to the frosting or use chocolate sandwich cookies instead of Oreos for a rich chocolate crunch topping.
The chocolatey combination adds depth and decadence that chocolate lovers will adore.
Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, into the cupcake batter for an added crunch.
This earthy flavor will give your cupcakes a delightful texture boost that contrasts beautifully with the frosting.
Fruity Frosting: Blend in fresh strawberry puree into the frosting for an extra layer of fruity goodness.
This little twist not only enhances the flavor but also deepens the pink hue of your frosting for a vibrant look!
Extra Heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the frosting for a surprising touch of heat that complements the sweetness.
It’s an adventurous way to elevate your everyday cupcakes into an unforgettable dessert experience.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the batter or frosting for a citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness.
This refreshing addition will give your cupcakes a summer flair that will have everyone asking for more!

Remember, the joy of baking comes from expressing your creativity in the kitchen! If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying other delightful recipes like Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon or refreshing Cucumber Strawberry Salad. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better emulsion and texture in your cupcakes.

• Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding wet ingredients. This helps maintain the fluffiness of your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes for a delightful bite.

• Chill Time Matters: Allow the cupcakes to chill sufficiently after adding the gelatin. This ensures proper flavor infusion and a moist texture throughout.

• Creative Variations: Experiment with different flavors of gelatin or toppings to suit your taste. These variations can elevate your Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes to another level.

• Fresh Baking Powder: Always check that your baking powder is fresh for optimal leavening, ensuring light and airy cupcakes.

• Mind the Mess: When injecting gelatin, work slowly to avoid spills and ensure each cupcake gets a fair share of that refreshing strawberry flavor.

What to Serve with Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes?

The perfect blend of sweetness and nostalgia makes these cupcakes a delightful centerpiece for any gathering.

Refreshing Lemonade: The tangy, bright flavor of lemonade pairs beautifully with the sweet strawberry cupcakes, providing a refreshing contrast.
Iced Tea: A chilled glass of sweetened or unsweetened iced tea complements the rich frosting while enhancing the overall summertime vibe.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal berries introduces fresh, juicy elements that enhance the fruity flavors of the cupcakes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is the ultimate indulgent pairing that balances the crunch with a smooth, delightful finish.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For added elegance, serving chocolate-covered strawberries alongside the cupcakes adds both luxurious flavor and visual appeal.
Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites echo the cupcakes’ creaminess, creating a harmonious dessert platter for your summer celebrations.
Sparkling Water: A cool glass of sparkling water is a refreshing palate cleanser that keeps the focus on those delicious strawberry crunch cupcakes.
S’mores Dip: For an adventurous twist, a warm s’mores dip served with graham crackers can create a fun collaborative dessert experience.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and coconut flavor bring a delightful contrast that rounds out a well-loved dessert spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors of summer without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. The baked cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For an even more delightful experience, poke holes and inject the strawberry gelatin the day before serving, ensuring it chills for 2-3 hours to set. Just add the frosting and crunchy topping right before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious, making it a snap to enjoy these nostalgic treats anytime!

Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe strawberries for the cupcakes?
When selecting strawberries, look for those that are bright red with a natural shine and no dark spots. Choose berries that are plump and firm, as they’re the sweetest when perfectly ripe. If possible, opt for local, in-season strawberries, as they tend to have the best flavor.

How should I store leftover Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes?
To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their moisture and flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes?
Yes, absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 2 hours—this will ensure they remain moist and delicious!

What if my cupcakes sink in the middle after baking?
If you find that your cupcakes have sunk in the middle, it could be due to overmixing the batter or underbaking. To prevent sinking, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, ensuring not to overwork the batter. Always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Are these cupcakes suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! You can make Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives. These substitutions will maintain the cupcakes’ delicious flavor and texture.

Can pets eat Strawberry Crunch Cupcakes?
It’s best to keep these cupcakes away from pets, especially if they contain ingredients like chocolate (in flavored versions) or high sugar content, which aren’t suitable for animals. If you wish to share a treat with your furry friends, consider making a pet-friendly version without harmful ingredients.