Vanilla Cupcakes with Strawberry Topping (Printable Version)

Fluffy vanilla cupcakes crowned with cloud-like whipped cream and fresh strawberries - an elegant yet simple gourmet dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the cupcakes

01 - 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 ½ tsp baking powder
03 - ¼ tsp salt
04 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - ¾ cup granulated sugar
06 - 2 large eggs
07 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
08 - ½ cup whole milk

→ For the cream topping

09 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
10 - 2 tbsp powdered sugar
11 - ½ tsp vanilla extract

→ For garnish

12 - 12 small fresh strawberries (hulled)
13 - Mint leaves, edible flowers, or gold leaf for styling (optional)

# Steps To Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with white or neutral liners.
02 - In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
03 - In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
05 - Add dry ingredients alternately with milk, starting and ending with flour mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
06 - Divide batter evenly among cups and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
07 - Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before topping.
08 - Beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
09 - Transfer whipped cream to a piping bag fitted with a round or star tip.
10 - Pipe a soft, rounded swirl of whipped cream onto each cooled cupcake.
11 - Top each cupcake with a single fresh strawberry, centered gently on the cream.

# Notes and Tips:

01 - For best results, ensure ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
02 - Cupcakes can be made a day ahead, but add cream and strawberries just before serving.