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Freshly baked Red Velvet Cupcakes with a deep red color, topped with smooth cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of red velvet crumbs.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Indulge in soft, moist red velvet cupcakes with a rich cocoa flavor and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion—bake them today!
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Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  • In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

  • In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Flavoring

  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Add Vinegar & Final Mix

  • Stir in the white vinegar, which enhances the texture and color of the cupcakes. Give the batter one final mix.

Step 7: Fill & Bake

  • Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Completely

  • Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

    Step 1: Beat Butter & Cream Cheese

    • In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

    Step 2: Add Sugar & Vanilla

    • Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing. Pour in vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat until fluffy and well combined.

    Step 3: Frost & Serve

    • Use a piping bag or spatula to frost the cupcakes. Serve and enjoy! 🎂
    Keyword Red Velvet Cupcakes