Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes Recipe

Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes blend the creamy nostalgia of a diner milkshake with the irresistible charm of a homemade cupcake.

This recipe captures everything you love about a classic strawberry milkshake, transforming it into a soft, moist, and perfectly pink cupcake.

With a burst of real strawberry flavor, a fluffy milkshake-inspired frosting, and playful toppings, these cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or any day you crave something sweet and cheerful.

Each bite delivers a balance of fruity freshness and rich vanilla, wrapped up in a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients Checklist

To achieve the iconic taste and look of Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes, gather these ingredients for the cupcakes, milkshake frosting, and playful toppings. Here’s everything you’ll need for perfect results:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour, sifted

• 1/4 cup (30g) strawberry milk powder (e.g., Nesquik or similar, optional but boosts flavor)

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt

• 5 tablespoons (70g) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 1/3 cups (270g) granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk (or strawberry-flavored milk)

• 1/4 cup (60ml) pureed strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)

• Optional: 2-3 drops pink gel food coloring for vibrant color

For the Milkshake Frosting:

• 11 tablespoons (155g) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 3 3/4 cups (450g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted

• 3-4 tablespoons strawberry milkshake (homemade or store-bought, see tips below)

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Toppings & Decorations:

• Whipped cream (homemade or store-bought)

• Sprinkles (rainbow or pink for a milkshake look)

• Mini Whoppers or malted milk balls

• Fresh strawberries, sliced or whole

• Paper straws (cut into thirds)

• Maraschino cherries (optional, for an authentic soda shop vibe)

Special Equipment:

• Standard 12-cup muffin pan

• Paper cupcake liners (pink or patterned for extra fun)

• Electric mixer (handheld or stand)

• Mixing bowls (at least two)

• Fine mesh sieve (for sifting flour and sugar)

• Rubber spatula

• Piping bag and star tip (for pretty frosting)

• Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes is straightforward when you organize your prep and follow each step with care. Here’s how to create cupcakes that deliver both flavor and flair:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

• In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, strawberry milk powder (if using), baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

• In a small bowl or jug, stir together the milk and strawberry puree. If you want a bolder pink color, add the gel food coloring now.

• With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the strawberry-milk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, scraping the bowl as needed to ensure an even batter.

• Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full. Tap the tray gently to remove air bubbles.

• Bake for 16-19 minutes, rotating halfway through, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for best texture.

• Remove cupcakes from oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

For the Milkshake Frosting:

• Beat the butter on medium-high speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.

• Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low until incorporated.

• Add the vanilla, salt, and 3 tablespoons of strawberry milkshake. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until fluffy and smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a bit more milkshake, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

• Fill a piping bag fitted with a large star tip with the frosting. Pipe generous swirls onto cooled cupcakes.

To Decorate:

• Top each cupcake with a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkles, a mini Whopper or malted milk ball, and a small piece of paper straw. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice or a cherry for an extra milkshake feel.

Tips for Perfect Results

Mastering these cupcakes is all about balancing flavor, moisture, and texture. Here are essential tips to help you bake like a pro every time:

• Use room-temperature ingredients to create a smooth batter and even baking.

• If you can’t find strawberry milk powder, increase the fresh strawberry puree and use strawberry-flavored milk for a similar flavor boost.

• For an extra “milkshake” effect, brush warm cupcakes with a little strawberry milk as they cool.

• Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added—this keeps the crumb light and tender.

• To make your own strawberry milkshake for the frosting, blend 1/4 cup strawberries with 1/2 cup milk and strain out seeds. Sweeten lightly to taste.

• For gluten-free cupcakes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; for egg-free, use a flaxseed egg or commercial egg replacer.

• Frost only fully cooled cupcakes to prevent melting and sliding.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes with thoughtful presentation and creative pairings. Here’s how to turn dessert into an experience:

• Arrange cupcakes on a tiered cake stand, alternating with fresh strawberries for a soda shop display.

• Serve with mini milk bottles of strawberry or vanilla milk for a playful touch.

• For parties, offer a cupcake decorating station with extra sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, and paper straws.

• Pair these cupcakes with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of strawberry sorbet for a delightful dessert platter.

• Add a drizzle of strawberry syrup or melted white chocolate for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes bring together the best of nostalgic treats and modern baking creativity. Whether for a special occasion or a fun baking project, they offer a burst of strawberry flavor in every bite and invite customization with toppings and serving ideas. By following this detailed recipe and using the expert tips provided, you’ll achieve a moist, flavorful cupcake with a silky frosting that perfectly echoes your favorite childhood milkshake.