Description
These classic Red Velvet Cupcakes are moist, tender, and beautifully red with a hint of cocoa flavor, topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a delicious, visually stunning treat.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt ensuring they are well combined.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, buttermilk, and red food coloring until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing lightly and carefully until just combined to maintain a tender crumb. Avoid overmixing.
- Fill the Liners: Distribute the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy using a mixer or whisk.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture, beating until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a piping bag or spatula to apply the cream cheese frosting evenly on each cupcake.
- Optional Garnish: Decorate with sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a light dusting of cocoa powder to add an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes moist and tender.
- Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly and produce better texture.
- Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American