Introduction
Welcome to a delightful baking adventure that will tantalize your taste buds! These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are the perfect combination of light, airy cake and luscious strawberry goodness, all enhanced by a splash of bourbon. Imagine fluffy, golden-brown cupcakes topped with freshly whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberries that create a heavenly dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these cupcakes are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package angel food cake mix
- 1 1/4 cups water
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners, letting the warm, comforting aroma of preheating fill your kitchen.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the angel food cake mix, water, and bourbon. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is well blended, leaving behind a smooth batter free of lumps.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling them about three-quarters full. This will allow them to rise beautifully!
- Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cupcakes are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, carefully remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your home with the sweet scent of vanilla.
- While the cupcakes cool, prepare the strawberry topping. In a bowl, mix the sliced strawberries with powdered sugar, allowing them to sit for about 10 minutes. This will unlock their natural juices, creating a delicious syrup.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form. The cream should be rich and fluffy, perfect for frosting!
- Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each one with the whipped cream, letting it swirl on top like a soft cloud.
- Top each frosted cupcake with the macerated strawberries, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best experience, or chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to delight your guests with these irresistible treats.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of bourbon to taste, or replace it with a splash of vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- These cupcakes are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect angel food cake cupcakes is to ensure that you do not overbeat the mixture, as you want to keep that lovely airy texture. When whipping the cream, watch for the stiff peaks; this will make your frosting beautifully structured and easy to pipe!
FAQ
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
- How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Look for a gluten-free angel food cake mix to ensure they remain light and fluffy!
Conclusion
These Bourbon Strawberry Angel Food Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines airy cake with a rich strawberry topping, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that not only looks stunning but also tastes absolutely divine. So whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these cupcakes are bound to be a hit. Enjoy your baking and the delightful results!