Red Velvet Cupcakes Cream Cheese (Printable version)

Tender red velvet cupcakes crowned with creamy, tangy frosting—ideal for special occasions and treats.

# List of ingredients:

→ For the Cupcakes

01 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 tsp baking soda
04 - 1/4 tsp salt
05 - 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
06 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
07 - 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
08 - 1 large egg, at room temperature
09 - 1 tbsp red food coloring
10 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
11 - 1/2 tsp white vinegar

→ For the Cream Cheese Frosting

12 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
13 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
16 - Pinch of salt

# Directions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well blended.
03 - In a separate large bowl, whisk together oil, buttermilk, egg, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
05 - Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
06 - Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
07 - Allow cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
08 - In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
09 - Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
10 - Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • That incredible texture somewhere between cake and brownie that keeps you coming back for just one more
  • The frosting is so good you will find yourself eating it straight from the bowl
02 -
  • Room temperature ingredients are non-negotiable for that silky smooth frosting texture
  • Completely cool cupcakes are essential or your frosting will melt right off
03 -
  • Sift your powdered sugar before adding to the frosting to avoid any lumps
  • For extra flair, top with red velvet cake crumbs or decorative sprinkles