Short Description
Red Velvet Cupcakes are a classic treat with a rich, moist texture, subtle cocoa flavor, and a hint of tanginess. Topped with smooth cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any special occasion or indulgent dessert craving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Moist – The perfect balance of cocoa and buttermilk creates a tender crumb.
- Vibrant and Beautiful – The deep red hue makes these cupcakes visually stunning.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or a sweet treat.
- Creamy Frosting – The cream cheese frosting complements the cake perfectly.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
baking soda
salt
sugar
butter
eggs
buttermilk
vanilla extract
red food coloring
white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
cream cheese
butter
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings – Mix in eggs, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Bake the Cupcakes – Fill liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting – Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Frost and Decorate – Pipe or spread frosting over the cooled cupcakes and enjoy!
Variations
- Dairy-Free – Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
- Gluten-Free – Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
- Extra Chocolatey – Add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
- Less Sweet Frosting – Reduce powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt.
- Nutty Twist – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Let cupcakes come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use natural food coloring?
Yes, beet powder or pomegranate juice can be used for a natural red color.
What makes red velvet different from chocolate cake?
Red velvet has less cocoa and includes buttermilk and vinegar for a unique tangy flavor.
Can I make these cupcakes without food coloring?
Yes, they’ll taste the same but will have a light brown color.
How do I make the cupcakes extra moist?
Ensure you don’t overmix the batter and use buttermilk for a tender texture.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
How do I get smooth frosting?
Make sure the cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing.
Can I make mini cupcakes?
Yes! Adjust the baking time to 10-12 minutes.
What piping tip should I use for frosting?
A star tip creates a beautiful swirl, but any tip works fine.
How do I store frosted cupcakes?
Keep them in the fridge but bring them to room temperature before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply scale up the ingredients proportionally.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cupcakes are a delightful treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With their moist texture, subtle cocoa flavor, and creamy frosting, they’re sure to impress at any gathering. Try them today and enjoy the perfect bite of sweetness!
Print
Delicious Red Velvet Cupcake
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Description
Red Velvet Cupcakes are a classic treat with a rich, moist texture, subtle cocoa flavor, and a hint of tanginess. Topped with smooth cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for any special occasion or indulgent dessert craving.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings – Mix in eggs, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients – Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Bake the Cupcakes – Fill liners 2/3 full and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting – Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Frost and Decorate – Pipe or spread frosting over the cooled cupcakes and enjoy!
Notes
- Dairy-Free – Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
- Gluten-Free – Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
- Extra Chocolatey – Add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
- Less Sweet Frosting – Reduce powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt.
- Nutty Twist – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Cupcakes, Cream Cheese Frosting, Moist Cupcakes, Classic Dessert, Easy Baking Recipe
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