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Delicious red velvet cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Indulge in these delightful Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for any occasion with their rich texture and vibrant color.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes

  • 2 cups All-purpose flour (sifted) this buttery foundation offers a soft, tender crumb.
  • 2 tablespoons Cocoa powder (unsweetened) providing a subtle depth of flavor without overwhelming the cake.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda it helps the cupcakes rise beautifully.
  • 1 pinch Salt a necessary addition that balances sweetness.
  • 1.5 cups Granulated sugar sweetening your cupcakes to perfection.
  • 1 cup Vegetable oil ensuring moistness and a melt-in-your-mouth feel.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk adding a tangy richness that elevates the flavor.
  • 2 large Eggs binding everything together and adding richness.
  • 2 tablespoons Red food coloring (gel-based) for that iconic red hue.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract enhancing the overall aroma and flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz Cream cheese (softened) for an irresistible, creamy frosting.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened) lending a smooth richness to the frosting.
  • 4 cups Powdered sugar creating the perfect amount of sweetness for a fluffy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract for frosting providing more flavor depth for your creamy topping.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with beautiful paper liners.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • In another bowl, blend the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until smooth and creamy, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Stir in the buttermilk and red food coloring, creating the signature red velvet color.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
  • Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with the batter.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  • Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  • To prepare the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla.
  • Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with cream cheese frosting.

Notes

Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing and sift your dry ingredients for an airy texture. Do not overmix the batter for tender cupcakes.
Keyword Baking, Cream Cheese Frosting, cupcakes, Desserts, Red Velvet