Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure filled with sweetness and a touch of sophistication! These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are not just any ordinary treat—they’re a light and airy indulgence that beckons for sunny afternoons and festive gatherings. Imagine fluffy cake infused with fresh, juicy strawberries and a hint of bourbon, all crowned with rich, velvety whipped cream. Perfect for summer celebrations or simply to brighten your day, these cupcakes are bound to make your taste buds dance with joy!
Ingredients
- 1 box angel food cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to get ready for these delightful treats.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix with the water. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on high speed for about 1 minute until it’s well combined and fluffy like a cloud.
- Gently fold in the freshly diced strawberries and the luscious bourbon into the cake batter, making sure to keep all that airiness intact.
- Using a spoon or spatula, divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for that lovely rise.
- Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cupcakes are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to whip until soft peaks form—a beautiful, creamy cloud.
- Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, crown each one with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For a finishing touch, add extra diced strawberries on top for that burst of flavor.
Notes or Tips
For an added depth of flavor, feel free to modify the amount of bourbon based on your taste preference. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the bourbon or substitute it with a splash of vanilla extract.
These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to add the whipped cream just before serving to keep everything light and airy!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases a classic technique of whipping egg whites as the base of angel food cake, which gives these cupcakes their stunning texture. Remember to be gentle when folding in the strawberries and bourbon to preserve that fluffy consistency!
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
What if I don’t have a cupcake pan?
No worries! You can bake this mixture in a regular cake pan, but keep an eye on the baking time as it may require a little longer.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Definitely! Look for a gluten-free angel food cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Conclusion
These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are sure to steal the show, offering a delightful combination of flavor and texture that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for any occasion or simply as a sweet treat for yourself, they remind us that simple ingredients can create extraordinary desserts. You might just find yourself making these divine cupcakes time and time again!