Description
These Red Velvet Cupcakes are soft, moist, and perfectly fluffy with a subtle cocoa flavor and a vibrant deep red hue. Paired with a smooth and tangy classic cream cheese frosting, they make a delightful dessert ideal for holidays, parties, or any special celebrations.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt ensuring they are evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar until smooth.
- Combine Batter: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep cupcakes tender.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full for proper rising.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, they are done.
- Cool: Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, combining thoroughly to achieve a sweet, smooth frosting.
- Flavor Frosting: Add vanilla extract and beat the mixture until fluffy and luscious.
- Frost Cupcakes: Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them evenly with the cream cheese frosting and serve immediately for best results.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain cupcake fluffiness and tenderness.
- Gel food coloring provides the most vibrant and rich red color for a classic look.
- Store cupcakes in the refrigerator; they stay moist and fresh for 3 to 4 days.
- Frost cupcakes just before serving to ensure the frosting maintains its best appearance and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
