The BEST Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s something undeniably charming about a batch of freshly baked red velvet cupcakes. Their vibrant hue, soft texture, and the luscious cream cheese frosting make them a favorite for celebrations and cozy gatherings alike. Today, we’re diving into the art of baking The BEST Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for the recipe. Let’s get started on this delightful journey!

Why Cooks Rave About It

These cupcakes are a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The subtle hint of cocoa paired with the tangy cream cheese frosting creates a harmonious taste that is both classic and contemporary. They’re not just pretty to look at; they’re also incredibly moist and fluffy, making them a hit at birthdays, weddings, and any occasion where dessert takes center stage. The vibrant red color adds a touch of elegance, elevating any dessert table. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these treats are so beloved!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create The BEST Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon milk (plus more if needed)

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you dive into the baking process, make sure you have the following kitchen gear on hand:

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer: To achieve that fluffy frosting and batter.
• Cupcake pan: A standard 12-cup muffin pan works perfectly.
• Cupcake liners: For easy removal and to keep cupcakes looking pretty.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking!
• Spatula: For folding ingredients and icing your cupcakes.

How to Prepare The BEST Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Let’s get started on crafting these delightful cupcakes! Follow these simple steps for perfect results.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Cupcake Liners

Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also adds a lovely touch to your presentation.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined. This will ensure that your leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Use an electric mixer on low speed to blend these ingredients until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 6: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 8: Cool the Cupcakes

Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and cream cheese together until creamy and smooth. Add in the pinch of salt, vanilla extract, and gradually incorporate the powdered sugar. Mix until fluffy, adding milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 10: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or a piping bag. Feel free to get creative with your frosting technique!

International Equivalents

If you’re baking from outside the United States, here are some equivalents to keep in mind:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: 120 grams
• 1 cup granulated sugar: 200 grams
• 1 cup buttermilk: 240 ml
• 1 cup powdered sugar: 120 grams

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your cupcakes come out perfectly every time, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing: This can lead to dense cupcakes. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Skipping the cooling stage: Frosting warm cupcakes can melt your cream cheese frosting, resulting in a gooey mess.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science; use proper measuring techniques for the best results.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To keep your cupcakes fresh:

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and frost them just before serving.

Ask & Learn

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking in the middle?

Ensure that your oven is properly preheated and avoid overmixing your batter. Also, make sure you’re using fresh baking soda and baking powder to provide the right lift.

Can I use a different frosting?

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

You Might Also Like

• Red Velvet Cake Recipe
• Vanilla Bean Cupcakes
• Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes

Hungry for More?

If you’re craving more baking adventures, stay tuned! There’s a world of flavors waiting for you to discover. From decadent chocolate desserts to light and refreshing fruity treats, the possibilities are endless.

The BEST Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to impress and satisfy. With their rich flavor and striking appearance, these cupcakes will become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the baking magic begin! Happy baking!