A quick sweet idea.

introduction

These cupcakes pair dark cake and fresh fruit. You bake soft chocolate cupcakes. You melt chocolate and dip ripe strawberries. The fruit makes the cake look and taste fresh. Try this with a small change from this chocolate-strawberry hi-hat recipe for a fun twist.

why make this recipe

You make this for a small party or a gift. The cupcakes look nice and taste rich. Kids and friends will smile when they see the red strawberry on top. You can use the same idea for other treats like these chocolate-covered strawberry brownies if you want more chocolate.

how to make Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Garnish Cupcakes

You mix dry and wet parts, then bake. Cool the cupcakes, melt chocolate, and dip the fruit. You can dip the cupcake top or just drizzle chocolate. Work in this order so the cake stays soft and the fruit looks good. For a slightly different method, see this idea: another chocolate and fruit recipe.

Ingredients :

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup boiling water
Chocolate for dipping
Strawberries for garnish

You can check a similar parts list for cocoa treats here: more cocoa ideas.

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla; mix until well combined.
Stir in boiling water until the batter is smooth.
Fill each cupcake liner 2/3 full with batter.
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow cupcakes to cool completely.
Melt chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl.
Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, then place them on a parchment-lined tray to set.
Once cupcakes are cool, dip the tops in the remaining chocolate or drizzle melted chocolate over each cupcake.
Top with the chocolate-dipped strawberries and serve.

how to serve Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Garnish Cupcakes

Place one cupcake on a small plate. Add a few fresh strawberries on the side. Serve at room temp so the chocolate is firm but the cake stays soft. For a party, set them on a long tray and space them well.

how to store Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Garnish Cupcakes

Keep them in a cool place. Store in one layer in a covered box. Put a paper towel under the lid to catch moisture. If you add the strawberry on top, eat within 24 hours for best taste. You can keep plain cupcakes in the fridge for 3 days.

tips to make Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Garnish Cupcakes

Use ripe but firm strawberries for a good look.
Let the cupcakes cool all the way before adding warm chocolate.
Heat chocolate in short bursts and stir to avoid burn.
Chill dipped strawberries on parchment so they do not stick.
For more tips on chocolate work, see this link: simple chocolate tips.

variation (if any)

Use white chocolate for a light look.
Add a small dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar on top.
Replace strawberries with raspberries or small figs.
Make mini cupcakes for bite-size treats.

FAQs (minimum three FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: No. Use fresh berries. Frozen ones lose shape and make the chocolate wet.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead?
A: Yes. Mix the dry parts and keep cool. Add the wet mix right before baking.

Q: Do I need special chocolate?
A: No. Use any melting or baking chocolate. You can use chocolate chips if you melt them slowly.

Q: Can I freeze these cupcakes?
A: You can freeze plain cupcakes. Wrap them well. Add the chocolate fruit after thawing.

Q: How do I melt chocolate without a microwave?
A: Use a bowl over a pot of hot water. Stir until smooth.

Conclusion

For a full step-by-step post with photos, see this Chocolate Strawberry Cupcakes – Celebrating Sweets.