Go Back
Red velvet cupcakes have captivated dessert lovers for generations with their striking crimson hue and luxurious, velvety texture. The moment you bite into one of these delightful treats, you are met with a perfect balance of flavors: a hint of cocoa mingles with a tangy richness that keeps you coming back for more. The iconic pairing of red velvet with cream cheese frosting is a match made in dessert heaven, elevating these cupcakes from mere sweets to a centerpiece worthy of any celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or simply a treat for yourself, red velvet cupcakes hold a special place in the hearts of many.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Indulge your sweet tooth with this mouthwatering recipe for decadent red velvet cupcakes topped with rich cream cheese frosting. These strikingly beautiful cupcakes are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds, featuring a perfect balance of subtle cocoa and tangy notes. This guide takes you through the history, key ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to create these show-stopping treats. Perfect for any celebration or a well-deserved treat for yourself!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Red Velvet 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 cup vegetable oil

1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

2 large eggs, room temperature

2 tablespoons red food coloring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk to combine.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar together until well blended.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

          Fill Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Cool the Cupcakes: Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; beat until fluffy.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag.

                    Decorate (Optional): For a special touch, top each cupcake with red velvet crumbs or edible glitter.

                      Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 12 cupcakes