mini strawberry runny cake

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
1. In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the strawberries release their juices and begin to soften. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
2. If you prefer a thicker topping, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the strawberry mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
3. Once the strawberries are soft and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat and set aside.

#### Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your mini muffin or cupcake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add the milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. Stir until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Spoon the batter evenly into each muffin cup, filling about halfway full.

#### Step 3: Bake the Cakes
1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cakes are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Mini Strawberry Runny Cake
1. Once the cakes have cooled slightly, use a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cake. This will create space for the strawberry topping.
2. Spoon the warm strawberry sauce into each indentation, letting it overflow slightly onto the edges of the cake.
3. For an extra touch of indulgence, top each cake with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf.

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### Serving and Enjoying Your Mini Strawberry Runny Cake

These mini strawberry cakes are best served slightly warm, so the strawberry topping remains runny and juicy. The contrast of the warm, gooey topping with the light, fluffy cake is absolutely irresistible. Here’s how you can enjoy your mini strawberry runny cakes:

– **For a Fun Party Dessert**: Serve them as part of a dessert table. They’re bite-sized, which makes them perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
– **As a Sweet Breakfast or Brunch**: Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day.
– **For Special Occasions**: The vibrant red strawberries and the soft, warm texture make these cakes a perfect dessert for holidays or birthdays.

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### Tips and Variations

– **Other Berries**: While strawberries are the star of this recipe, feel free to experiment with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
– **Gooey Center**: For a gooier, more decadent version, you can make a “lava cake” version by reducing the baking time slightly and creating a molten center.
– **Dairy-Free Option**: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil.

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### Conclusion

The **Mini Strawberry Runny Cake** is the perfect blend of sweetness, tartness, and comfort. It’s easy to prepare, and the small individual servings make it a fun and approachable dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a summer treat or a simple but delicious way to indulge in strawberries, this mini cake is sure to be a hit. So grab some fresh strawberries and get ready to enjoy this delightful dessert that’s bound to please everyone at the table!