If you’ve ever dreamed of frosting that’s as dreamy and fluffy as a cloud but bursting with sweet, fruity flavor, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting for Cupcakes Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of marshmallow fluff’s light, pillowy texture and the irresistible freshness of strawberry preserves, all wrapped in a buttery, creamy swirl that takes your cupcakes from ordinary to absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a picnic, or just because you deserve something spectacular, this frosting makes every bite a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this frosting lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding creaminess, sweetness, or that delicate strawberry hue that makes your cupcakes look as good as they taste.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup softened: Brings rich, creamy texture and acts as the perfect base to blend all flavors smoothly.
- Marshmallow fluff, 1 1/2 cups: Provides that iconic fluffy and sweet marshmallow taste and texture you can’t get enough of.
- Strawberry preserves, 1/3 cup: Adds natural fruitiness and just the right balance of sweetness, along with a gentle, rosy color.
- Powdered sugar, 1 1/2 to 2 cups sifted: Essential for sweetness and thickening – adjust to your preferred consistency.
- Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon: Lends warm depth and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- Salt, a pinch: Enhances all the flavors, making the sweetness shine without being overpowering.
- Optional: Red or pink food coloring: For a more vivid strawberry color if you love a pop of pink.
- Optional: Freeze-dried strawberry powder, 1 teaspoon: Boosts the strawberry flavor even more naturally and intensely.
How to Make Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting for Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Soften Butter for Creamy Texture
Start by letting your unsalted butter come to room temperature. This step is key because softened butter blends easier and creates a smooth, creamy base. If your butter is too cold, the mixing won’t be smooth and the frosting might be lumpy – no one wants that!
Step 2: Beat Butter Until Fluffy
Use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter on medium-high for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll notice the butter lighten in color and expand in volume, which is exactly what you want. This fluffy butter is the secret to a bright, airy frosting that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Blend in Marshmallow Fluff
Add the marshmallow fluff and mix on medium speed until it’s well combined and airy. The marshmallow fluff adds that magical lightness and sweetness, turning your batter into something almost like a cloud you can lick.
Step 4: Mix in Strawberry Preserves
Next, stir in the strawberry preserves or puree. This introduces the fresh, fruity flavor and naturally tints your frosting a delicate pale pink. Don’t be shy here – this step really sets this frosting apart from your standard buttercream.
Step 5: Add Powdered Sugar Gradually
To get the perfect frosting consistency, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing on a low speed. Once it starts to thicken, increase to medium-high speed to blend thoroughly. Feel free to adjust the amount depending on whether you like a softer, spreadable frosting or something stiffer for piping designs.
Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract and Salt
Toss in the vanilla extract and a tiny pinch of salt to balance and deepen the flavor profile. Mix just until everything is combined – no overmixing needed here.
Step 7: Taste and Tweak
Now comes the fun part: tasting! If you want your frosting fruitier, add a touch more preserves. If it’s too sweet or soft, a little extra powdered sugar will fix that. This step ensures your frosting is perfectly tailored to your palate.
Step 8: Chill if Too Soft
If the frosting feels too soft to pipe or spread nicely, pop it in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes. This quick chill firms it up just enough to hold shapes without losing any of its fluffy charm.
Step 9: Immediate Use or Refrigerate
You can use your strawberry marshmallow frosting immediately to crown your cupcakes, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if you want to prepare ahead.
Step 10: Re-whip Before Using
If refrigerated, give the frosting a quick re-whip before spreading or piping to bring back that perfect fluffy texture. This step ensures your frosting is always luscious and easy to work with.
How to Serve Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting for Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance your beautifully frosted cupcakes, try topping them with sliced fresh strawberries, a sprinkle of freeze-dried strawberry crumbs, or even some pastel-colored sprinkles for that extra touch of whimsy. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also complement the strawberry flavors in the frosting beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these cupcakes alongside light and fresh treats like a citrus fruit salad or a simple bowl of mixed berries. The bright, clean flavors of the sides balance the sweet richness of the frosting and make your dessert plate feel vibrant and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider piping the frosting in elegant swirls using a star tip to create cupcake toppers that look professionally made at home. Or spread it thickly and scatter edible flowers delicately on top for a garden-fresh vibe. For parties, make mini cupcake stacks or even cupcake jars layered with frosting and cake crumbs for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover frosting, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, so you can use it on another batch of cupcakes or as a sweet spread for toast or pancakes.
Freezing
You can freeze the frosting for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to use it again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, re-whip the frosting to restore its fluffiness before applying.
Reheating
Avoid direct reheating like microwaving, which can melt the butterfat and ruin the texture. Instead, bring the frosting to room temperature naturally, and then re-whip to bring back that light texture perfect for piping or spreading.
FAQs
Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff for this frosting?
Absolutely! Homemade marshmallow fluff works wonderfully and adds a personal touch. Just be sure it’s fully cooled and whipped before adding to the butter for the best texture.
Will the frosting hold up in warm weather?
This frosting is best served cool since butter and marshmallow fluff can soften quickly in the heat. If you’re serving outdoors, keep cupcakes refrigerated until just before serving or consider chilling them briefly to maintain shape.
How do I make the frosting pink without artificial coloring?
Using extra strawberry preserves or adding freeze-dried strawberry powder will naturally deepen the color without needing food coloring. Both deliver lovely hues and boost flavor!
Can this frosting be used on cakes as well?
Yes! It’s delightful on cakes, especially layered ones, but keep in mind it’s lighter and softer than traditional buttercream. Chilling between layers can help with stability.
Is the frosting gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the charm of a cupcake topped with this luscious Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting for Cupcakes Recipe. It’s a blend of dreamy fluffiness and fruity sweetness that’s sure to steal hearts and keep everyone coming back for more. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and watch your cupcakes become the star of any gathering!
Print
Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting for Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Enough frosting to frost 18–24 cupcakes (approximately 18 servings)
- Category: Dessert Frosting
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Marshmallow Frosting is a luscious and fluffy treat perfect for cupcakes or cakes, blending the creamy sweetness of butter and marshmallow fluff with the fruity burst of strawberry preserves. It offers a delightful light pink color and a balanced sweetness, making it an irresistible topping that’s easy to whip up in just minutes.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups marshmallow fluff
- 1/3 cup strawberry preserves
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- Optional: a few drops red or pink food coloring
- Optional: 1 teaspoon freeze-dried strawberry powder
Instructions
- Prepare Butter: Allow your butter to come to room temperature to ensure smooth blending with other ingredients.
- Beat Butter: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium-high speed for 3–4 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a perfect base for the frosting.
- Add Marshmallow Fluff: Add the marshmallow fluff to the butter and mix on medium speed until the mixture is well combined and fluffy.
- Incorporate Strawberry Preserves: Mix in the strawberry preserves or puree until the frosting attains a lovely light pink color and a fruity taste.
- Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed, then increase to medium-high as you reach the desired consistency and sweetness.
- Flavor with Vanilla and Salt: Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then mix just until everything is evenly combined.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the frosting and make any necessary adjustments by adding more strawberry preserves or powdered sugar to suit your preference.
- Chill if Needed: If the frosting feels too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to firm up before piping or spreading.
- Use or Store: Use the frosting immediately or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Re-whip Before Use: If refrigerated, re-whip the frosting before using to restore its fluffy texture.
Notes
- Ensure butter is fully softened to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Adjust powdered sugar quantity to control sweetness and frosting thickness.
- Optional food coloring enhances pink hue but is not necessary if strawberry preserves provide enough color.
- Freeze-dried strawberry powder can add an extra burst of strawberry flavor if desired.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature and be re-whipped before use.
- This frosting is best used within 5 days for optimal taste and texture.
