Looking to add a tropical twist to your dessert lineup? These Strawberry Mango Cupcakes are bursting with fruity flavor, combining the sweet richness of ripe mango with the bright tartness of fresh strawberries. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a swirl of strawberry-mango buttercream, they’re the perfect treat for summer parties, birthdays, picnics, or anytime you want to bring a little sunshine to your table.
Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes
- Tropical Flavor Combo – Mango and strawberry are a refreshing match made in dessert heaven.
- Perfect for Summer – Light, fruity, and full of fresh flavor.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Party-Ready – Beautifully garnished and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup mango purée (fresh or canned)
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or almond)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ¼ cup fresh strawberry purée (strained to remove seeds)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Mango chunks
Instructions
1. Prep the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Make the Batter
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mango purée, milk, and vanilla.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
3. Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Strawberry Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low until fully incorporated. Add the strawberry purée and vanilla, and beat until light and fluffy. Adjust consistency with a little more sugar or purée if needed.
5. Frost and Decorate
Once cupcakes are fully cooled, frost them using a piping bag or knife. Garnish with fresh fruit if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use ripe fruit – Fresh, sweet strawberries and mangoes will give you the best flavor and texture.
- Strain your purée – Remove seeds or excess moisture from the fruit purées to ensure smooth frosting.
- Chill your frosting if needed – If your frosting gets too soft, place it in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before piping.
Serving Ideas
- Serve chilled for a refreshing summer treat.
- Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or coconut water for a tropical twist.
- Decorate with fruit slices or edible flowers to make them extra eye-catching for events.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days if the room is cool.
- Refrigerate: Best for longer storage (up to 5 days) due to the fresh fruit in the frosting.
- Freeze: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.
- Leftover Frosting: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Re-whip before using.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fruit?
Yes, just thaw and drain well before using to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make the frosting less sweet?
Try reducing the powdered sugar slightly or adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely. Bake the cupcakes up to 2 days in advance, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Frost right before serving for best results.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Mango Cupcakes are like a bite of sunshine—moist, fruity, and topped with the perfect swirl of sweet strawberry frosting. Whether you’re hosting a tropical-themed party or just want something special to enjoy on a warm day, this easy cupcake recipe is a winner every time!