Red Velvet Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Cupcakes are a classic treat, beloved for their soft, velvety texture and vibrant red color. With a hint of cocoa and a subtle tang from buttermilk, these cupcakes strike the perfect balance between rich and light. Topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, they offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or simply indulging a sweet craving, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their elegance and taste.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
4. Add Buttermilk and Color: Mix in the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vinegar until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
7. Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
8. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with sprinkles, if desired, and enjoy your homemade Red Velvet Cupcakes!