1 1/2 cups flour
1 cup chopped strawberries
3/4 cups sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
1/4 cup canola oil
1/8 cup soy milk (any other milk is fine)
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/8-1/4 tsp orange zest
Bake at 350 for 22-25 minutes. I don't remember the exact amount this recipe yields, but I think it was about 10-12 cupkins. It wasn't until after my husband and I inhaled the last few that I realized I didn't count how many there were to begin with :)! Hopefully you'll want to gobble them up just as fast.
Kitchen notes for Valentine strawberry cupkins
For cakes and cupcakes, bring eggs and dairy closer to room temperature so the batter emulsifies cleanly. Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full for an even dome. Cool completely before frosting so the topping does not melt into the crumb.
Quick breads and muffins are done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Let loaves rest in the pan briefly, then finish cooling on a rack so steam does not sog the crust. Day-old slices toast beautifully for breakfast.
Seasonal spices bloom when warmed briefly in butter or in the oven’s first minutes of baking. Make-ahead doughs and batters can save holiday timing; label freezer bags with bake temperature and approximate minutes so guests are not waiting on guesswork.
Storage: wrap tightly once cool. Most baked goods freeze well for up to a month; thaw at room temperature, then refresh briefly in a warm oven if you want a just-baked edge.
Serving ideas: pair Valentine strawberry cupkins with a simple side that contrasts texture — something crisp if the dish is soft, or a bright salad if it is rich — so the plate feels balanced.
Food safety reminder: refrigerate perishable fillings promptly, and when reheating leftovers, bring them to a steaming hot temperature throughout.
Further reading: BBC Good Food baking guidance.