The secret surprise nestled inside filled cupcakes can make the difference between an ordinary and special dessert, liven up a birthday party or perk up a bake sale or potluck supper. Baking whole fruit, such as strawberries, inside cupcakes keeps your secret safe until the first bite. You can make the cake batter from scratch using a favorite recipe or keep things simple by using a prepared cake mix. In either case, expect lots of smiles as your guests discover the treasure hidden inside.

Wash strawberries and drain well in a large colander. Use the small knife to slice the stems and leaves off, removing any small bit of the hull left in the top wide end of the berries. Set the berries aside.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a cupcake paper or foil liner in each cup of the cupcake pan. Prepare the cake from scratch or from a mix.

Use a small scoop or spoon to fill the paper liners with batter until it comes up about half-way to the top. Place one strawberry in the batter and cover with more batter. Repeat the process until all of the cups are filled.

Bake according to the recipe or package directions, remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool slightly in the pan, then remove them to a wire rack. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely, then finish them with your favorite frosting.