The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Inaya, 38, from the sun-kissed island of Crete, Greece. Growing up, my grandmother taught me that desserts don’t just satisfy a craving they bring smiles, laughter, and love to the table. I still remember warm summer afternoons when we’d pick fresh strawberries from her garden, their scent filling the air. We’d make everything from jam to cakes, but my favorite was always the light, creamy strawberry shortcake.
This recipe for Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes is my modern twist on that childhood favorite. They’re bite-sized, fluffy, and filled with fresh strawberries and whipped cream — the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity. Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a picnic, or a cozy family dessert, these cupcakes make every moment sweeter.
What I love most about this mini strawberry shortcake cupcake recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare no complicated steps, just pure joy in every bite. Each cupcake captures the magic of strawberry shortcake in miniature form. If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that feels like sunshine in your mouth, this is it!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 12 mini cupcakes:
For the Cupcakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup whole milk
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish
- Fresh sliced strawberries
- Mint leaves (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy about 2–3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry mixture, alternating with milk, until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Spoon the batter evenly into the liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 14–16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat your whipped cream should be smooth and airy.
Step 4: Decorate the Cupcakes
Once the cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spoon whipped cream on top. Add a slice of fresh strawberry and a mint leaf for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mini strawberry shortcake cupcakes slightly chilled for the best flavor. They pair perfectly with a cup of Greek coffee, herbal tea, or even a glass of Prosecco for a celebratory touch.
If you’re hosting a party, display them on a white cake stand with fresh berries scattered around they’ll look as good as they taste!
Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes Recipe – A Sweet Bite of Summer
Light, fluffy, and full of sunshine these Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes combine vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream for a bite-sized treat that’s irresistibly sweet and easy to make. Perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or just a cozy dessert moment at home.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cupcakes
Ingredients
Cupcakes
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup whole milk
½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
Whipped Cream Topping
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
Garnish
Fresh strawberry slices
Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Preheat & Prepare:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners.Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.Cream Butter & Sugar:
Beat butter and sugar until fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.Combine Batter:
Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk. Fold in chopped strawberries gently.Bake:
Fill liners two-thirds full and bake 14–16 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.Whip Cream:
Beat cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.Decorate:
Pipe or spoon whipped cream onto cupcakes. Top with a strawberry slice and mint leaf.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and color.
Don’t overmix the batter it keeps cupcakes soft and fluffy.
For a fun twist, add a tiny dollop of strawberry jam inside before baking.
Keep cupcakes refrigerated if not serving immediately (up to 2 days).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Greek-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cupcake
- Calories: 145 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Conclusion
These mini strawberry shortcake cupcakes are more than just dessert they’re little bites of happiness. They remind me of sunny Cretan afternoons, laughter in the kitchen, and the joy of sharing something homemade with love.
Whether you’re baking them for friends, family, or a quiet evening treat, these cupcakes promise to make every moment feel special.
So grab your whisk, some fresh strawberries, and let’s bake a little love together! 💕
Short Version
These Mini Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes are the perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Made with soft vanilla sponge, fresh strawberries, and light whipped cream, they’re both simple and elegant. Inspired by my summers in Crete, they capture the essence of homemade sweetness and joy. You’ll love how easy they are to bake and how quickly they disappear from the table! Perfect for parties, brunches, or a quiet afternoon indulgence, these cupcakes turn everyday moments into something special. Bake them once, and they’ll become your new favorite dessert! 🍓