Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something undeniably enchanting about Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. These cupcakes capture the hearts of dessert lovers with their striking red color, velvety texture, and the delicious tang of cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any celebration or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cupcakes are a delightful balance of rich flavor and fluffy goodness. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, an anniversary, or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess. The red velvet base is moist and tender, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the entire cupcake experience. Plus, the vibrant red color makes them visually stunning on any dessert table. They’re easy to whip up, and the joy on everyone’s face when they take a bite is simply priceless.

What We’re Using

To make these delightful cupcakes, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 cups cake flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa (not Dutch processed)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups canola oil
• 2 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3 ounces red food coloring
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar

Appliances & Accessories

Before you dive into the baking process, ensure you have the following appliances and accessories handy:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk – to incorporate air into your batter.
• Electric mixer – for an effortless mixing experience.
• Cupcake pans – to shape and bake your cupcakes.
• Oven – preheated to the right temperature for perfect baking.
• Cooling rack – to cool your cupcakes after baking.
• Piping bags and tips – for beautifully decorating with cream cheese frosting.

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Cooking Guide

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of creating these beautiful Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Pans

Line your cupcake pans with paper liners. This will not only prevent sticking but also adds a lovely touch to your presentation.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the cake flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and ensures there are no lumps.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, combine the canola oil and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until well mixed. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Buttermilk

Gradually add the buttermilk into the wet mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Activate the Baking Soda

In a small bowl, combine the baking soda and white vinegar. This mixture will fizz up and help your cupcakes rise. Quickly fold this into your cupcake batter.

Step 7: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Using a measuring cup or a piping bag, fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Step 8: Bake

Place the cupcake pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare your cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 11: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip to frost each cupcake generously with the cream cheese frosting. Feel free to get creative with your designs!

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking to make some adjustments, consider these alternatives:

• Use whole wheat pastry flour instead of cake flour for a healthier option.
• Replace canola oil with melted coconut oil for a lighter flavor.
• Opt for a natural food coloring to achieve the red hue without artificial additives.
• For a dairy-free version, use almond milk mixed with apple cider vinegar instead of buttermilk.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
• Don’t skip the sifting step for the dry ingredients; it makes a difference in texture.
• If you want an extra touch, sprinkle some cocoa powder or red sprinkles on top of the frosting for decoration.
• These cupcakes can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• If you have leftover cupcakes, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is traditional, you can try buttercream or even a whipped cream topping for a lighter option.

How do I know when my cupcakes are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cupcakes are done. If it comes out wet, they need more time.

Don’t Miss These

• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies – another delicious twist on red velvet.
• Butter Cake With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe – a rich cake option for special occasions.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Baking is always better when shared! Tag us on social media with your creations, and let’s spread the joy of baking together.

There’s a reason Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting have become a classic favorite. With their stunning color, moist crumb, and deliciously creamy frosting, these cupcakes promise to be a hit at any gathering or as a sweet indulgence just for you. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!