Celebrate the essence of classic diners and sweet nostalgia with Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes. These cupcakes combine the fluffy texture of vanilla malt cakes with a creamy strawberry milk whipped frosting, creating a perfect treat for any party or gathering. Ideal for both retro enthusiasts and those who love a fun, flavorful twist on traditional desserts.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- White Cake Mix: 1 box
- Malt Powder: 4 tablespoons
- Egg Whites: 4
- Sour Cream: ½ cup
- Milk: 1 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
- Sea Salt: ¼ teaspoon
For the Frosting:
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups
- Confectioners’ Sugar: ½ cup
- Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix (dry): ⅓ cup
- Strawberry Milk Powder: 3 tablespoons
- Sprinkles: for decoration
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a cupcake pan with liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cupcake Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, malt powder, egg whites, sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the liners, filling each about ¾ full. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.
- Make Frosting: Using a mixer, whip the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, dry pudding mix, and strawberry milk powder until stiff peaks form. Be mindful not to overbeat.
- Decorate: Pipe the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes and garnish with sprinkles. Optionally, add a paper straw cut in half to mimic a milkshake presentation.
Tips
- Frosting Consistency: For the best frosting texture, whip until just before it becomes buttery. If over-whipped, the frosting can split and become too dense.
- Extra Garnish: Top each cupcake with a malt ball or a fresh strawberry to enhance the milkshake theme and add texture.
- Serving Suggestion: These cupcakes are a fantastic addition to birthday parties or any festive occasion.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the cupcakes a day ahead? A: Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and frost them before serving.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have malt powder? A: If malt powder is unavailable, you can omit it, though it adds a unique flavor that enhances the milkshake experience.
Q: Can I use regular milk instead of strawberry milk powder for the frosting? A: Regular milk won’t provide the same flavor intensity. For a substitute, try blending freeze-dried strawberries into a powder and use it in place of the strawberry milk powder.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Conclusion
Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a festive journey back to the golden age of diners and sweet indulgence. With their playful presentation and delightful flavors, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a tasty trip down memory lane with every bite. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, these cupcakes promise enjoyment and sweet satisfaction.