Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the airy sweetness of angel food cake with the rich, warm notes of bourbon and the fresh burst of strawberries. These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are not only light and fluffy, but they’re also packed with flavor that’s perfect for any occasion—from a cozy family gathering to a fun summer picnic. The touch of bourbon adds a sophisticated twist that will impress your guests and have them asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 box angel food cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup strawberries, pureed
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with colorful cupcake liners to brighten up your kitchen.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix with water, stirring gently until the mixture is fully incorporated and smooth.
- With a light hand, fold in the pureed strawberries, bourbon, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The mixture should be a beautiful pink and well-blended.
- Pour the luscious batter evenly into the lined cupcake pan, filling each liner about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once they’re beautifully baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan—this will keep them airy and soft.
- While the cupcakes cool, whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to whip until you have stiff peaks that will hold their shape.
- When your cupcakes have cooled, generously top each one with a luscious dollop of whipped cream and finish with a fresh strawberry on top for that perfect finishing touch.
Notes or Tips
These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. Feel free to adjust the bourbon to your taste—less for a milder flavor, or more if you’re feeling adventurous! For a fruity twist, consider adding a bit of orange zest to the whipped cream.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the technique of folding is key to keeping your angel food cupcakes light and fluffy. When adding the strawberry and bourbon mixture, use a gentle hand and a spatula to carefully combine the ingredients. This helps maintain the volume of the batter, ensuring a soft and airy texture in your finished cupcakes. Also, be mindful of not overbaking; keep an eye on them in the oven, as they can go from perfect to dry quickly!
FAQ
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes the day before and store them in an airtight container. Add the whipped cream and fresh strawberries just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for bourbon?
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the bourbon with extra strawberry puree or a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Conclusion
These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that truly come alive in your mouth. With their light, airy consistency, sweet strawberry flavor, and a hint of bourbon, you’ll soon find them to be a favorite dessert in your home. So why not surprise your family or guests with this sweet, boozy treat? They’re sure to leave with smiles and satisfied cravings!