Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes

For the cake I cheated and used a box mix. If you choose to make it from scratch your basic white cake recipe should work.

I recommend preparing the filling the day before so it has a chance to set up in the refrigerator.

For the filling:

1 16oz package frozen strawberries

1 1/2 cans of strawberry nectar (look for the Jumex brand)

1 1/2 cups sugar

Cornstarch/cold water mixture to thicken

In a medium saucepan add all of your ingredients together except the cornstarch/cold water mixture.

On medium heat, stirring often, bring your strawberries to a boil.

Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to 1/4 cup of cold water and mix together. Immediately, slowly pour it into your boiling strawberry mixture while stirring. Let the mixture boil for about 5 more minutes while stirring often. If the mixture looks thin still add more cornstarch/coldwater to thicken. It should be about the consistency of gravy while warm.

Set it aside to cool. Once it is cool pour it in your blender or food processor, puree the mixture and pour it into a container with a lid and store it in the refrigerator overnight.

The mixture should thicken once it is cold. 

To fill your cupcakes:

I like to core the cupcakes with a large icing tip. Use the wide opening end and press it down in to the middle of the cupcake and twist. You can also use a spoon to scoop some cake out of the cupcake. 

Using a spoon, fill the cupcake centers. 

For the frosting:

1 pint heavy whipping cream

8 oz cream cheese softened

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 stick unsalted butter softened

2 - 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

You will need two bowls. Either a hand mixer or a stand mixer. 

In one bowl, pour the entire container of whipping cream. Starting with the slowest speed start whipping the cream. Gradually speed up your mixer and continue to mix until the whipping cream thickens and forms peaks, about 5 minutes. Set aside. 

In the other bowl cream together butter and cream cheese. Once the mixture is smooth add your vanilla and powdered sugar (a little at a time until it reaches a frosting consistancy). Once you have that mixed slowly mix in your whipped cream one large spoonful at a time.

Now you're ready to frost your cupcakes!!

 This works best if you pipe it on to your cupcakes using a large icing tip.

You can add sugar sprinkles or even fresh strawberry slices to garnish. 

Happy Valentine's Day!!

ENJOY!