Who can resist a batch of moist, vibrant red velvet cupcakes topped with luscious cream cheese frosting? Red velvet cupcakes have become synonymous with celebration and indulgence.
With their striking red color, soft texture, and subtle cocoa flavor, these cupcakes are the perfect combination of elegance and comfort.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this easy red velvet cupcake recipe is your gateway to a delightful treat that will have everyone asking for more. Let’s explore what makes these cupcakes so irresistible and how you can whip them up with ease in your own kitchen!
Easy Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe
Serving Suggestions
This moist red velvet cake recipe tastes best when
Paired with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Served with fresh berries for added flavor.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to a week.
Preparation time:
- Cupcake Batter prep. time = 25 minutes.
- Baking time = 18-20 mins approx.
- Frosting prep. time = 20 mins
- Total Preparation time = 1 hour 5 mins
* This moist red velvet cupcake recipe has been tested by me :). If there is something that might not suit your taste buds, you can definitely use a substitute ingredient for it!.
However I would recommend you to follow the recipe as it is to ensure the best results. Thank you!*
Table of Contents
Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cupcakes
Avoid overbaking – Check for doneness early to keep it moist.
Use room temperature ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter.
Essential Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to have all your tools ready. A few essential pieces of equipment can make a world of difference in your baking process.
Baking Tools:
- Mixing Bowls: Multiple sizes to accommodate dry and wet ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: Speeds up the mixing process and ensures a smooth batter.
- Sifter: Essential for aerating flour and cocoa powder.
- Cupcake Pan and Liners: The right pan ensures even baking and easy removal of cupcakes.
Investing in quality equipment not only makes the process smoother but also results in consistently delicious cupcakes every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the batter can result in dense cupcakes :(.
Incorrect measurements can affect texture.
Do not cover the cupcakes while they’re still warm.
Proper cooling ensures that the cream cheese frosting (or any other topping) adheres perfectly and that the cupcakes maintain their delightful texture.
Ingredients Overview
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 & 2/3 Cups (213g) All-Purpose Flour
- 2 tsp Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 Eggs
- 3/4 Cup Buttermilk
- 3/4 cups Butter
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Special Ingredients:
- 3-4 drops Red Food Coloring: The star of the show! It’s what gives these cupcakes their iconic red hue.
- Optional: Cocoa powder is often used in a small amount to enrich the flavor without darkening the red color too much.
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
No red velvet cupcake recipe is complete without a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Here’s a simple recipe to whip up a silky smooth frosting that perfectly complements the cupcakes.
Ingredients for the Frosting:
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 &1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Step by Step Guide
Combining the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Use a whisk or a sifter to blend these ingredients together. This step is essential for ensuring that every cupcake has a consistent flavor and texture.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
Next, let’s move on to the wet ingredients that bring the batter together and add moisture.
Blending the Eggs and Buttermilk
- Crack the eggs into a medium bowl.
- Add the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food color.
- Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. The acidity in the buttermilk and vinegar reacts with the baking soda, giving the cupcakes their light and fluffy texture.
- On the other hand, add the butter ( cut into cubes) into the flour mixture, and beat until crumbly.
Creating the Perfect Batter
Combining the dry and wet ingredients is where the magic happens.
Combining Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients.
- Use an electric mixer on a low speed to blend them together. Overmixing at this stage can lead to dense cupcakes, so mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
Achieving a Smooth Batter
The ideal batter of this red velvet cupcake recipe should be smooth, free of lumps, and have a glossy appearance. If you notice any clumps, gently fold them out with a spatula. This careful blending is what ensures your cupcakes will have a light, tender crumb.
The Role of Red Food Coloring
- Slowly add red food coloring to the batter. You’ll notice the color deepen with each addition.
- The amount of food coloring can be adjusted depending on how vibrant you want the cupcakes to be. For a classic red velvet look, aim for a rich, deep red color that is evenly mixed throughout the batter.
Lining Techniques
- Use paper cupcake liners for easy removal and cleanup.
- Ensure each liner is securely placed in the pan to prevent the batter from spilling over.
Pan Preparation
A well-prepared pan guarantees that your cupcakes bake evenly. If you’re using a non-stick pan, ensure it’s lightly greased, but paper liners are usually sufficient for most recipes.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter to allow room for rising.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Every oven is different, so start checking at 18 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake should come out clean when they are done.
How to Check for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. Overbaking can dry out the cupcakes, so keep a close eye on them during the final minutes of baking.
Cooling Your Cupcakes
Cooling is as critical as baking, as it sets the texture of your cupcakes.
Best Practices for Cooling
- Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents condensation from forming, which could make the cupcakes soggy.
Preparation Steps for the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Incorporate the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. These ingredients elevate the flavor of the frosting.
- Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while beating on low speed. Increase the speed once the sugar is fully incorporated.
- Beat Until Fluffy: Continue to beat the mixture until the frosting is light and fluffy. It should be spreadable and have a soft consistency. It should be stable as well and not runny.
- You might need to increase or decrease the amount of sugar required depending on the consistency of the frosting.
This frosting is rich, tangy, and pairs perfectly with the slightly cocoa-infused red velvet cupcakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make red velvet cupcakes without food coloring?
Yes! You can use natural beet juice for a red tint.
2. Why do my cupcakes turn brown instead of red?
This happens if you use too much cocoa powder or not enough food coloring.
3. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, store them unfrosted and frost before serving.
4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make this easy red velvet cupcakes without buttermilk simply by substituting with milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
5. Can I use this recipe to make a cake instead?
Absolutely! Just bake it in a cake pan and adjust the baking time.
About me
Welcome to my blog! My name's Hurma and I really love cooking :). If you are also a cooking enthusiast who is looking for simple yet delicious recipes, then you've come to the right place!. At Good Kitchen you will find not only recipes, but also tips and tricks to improve your cooking and to ensure the best results.
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