Description
Looking for the perfect dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make? These Red Velvet Cupcakes are a classic treat with a tender, moist crumb and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Ideal for everything from easy dinner desserts to birthday party sweets, they blend mild cocoa flavor with a subtle tang and vibrant color. Whether you’re after a quick breakfast sweet, a Valentine’s Day surprise, or festive food ideas, this easy recipe has you covered. Great for bakers of all levels!
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
4. Add egg and beat well. Add vanilla, vinegar, and food coloring. Mix until smooth.
5. On low speed, mix in half the dry ingredients, then add buttermilk, then remaining dry mix. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide batter among liners, filling each 2/3 full. Bake 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool in pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before frosting.
8. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla. Beat until fluffy. Chill slightly before piping.
9. Frost cupcakes using a piping bag or spatula. Add sprinkles or decorations as desired.
Notes
Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and frosting.
Avoid overmixing once you add flour to keep the cupcakes light and tender.
Always let cupcakes cool fully before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: red velvet cupcakes, easy recipe, cream cheese frosting, dessert ideas, baking