Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Red Velvet Cupcakes are the epitome of indulgence moist, tender, and topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or whenever you need a sweet treat, these cupcakes are as stunning as they are delicious. If you’ve been searching for the best red velvet cupcakes recipe, look no further! In this post, I’ll share everything you need to bake these beauties, including tips, tricks, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Cupcakes

Taste: Perfectly balanced sweetness with a hint of cocoa and tangy cream cheese frosting
Texture: Ultra-soft, tender, and incredibly moist
Ease: Surprisingly simple with step-by-step instructions
Versatility: Great for holidays, special occasions, or a midweek treat

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cupcakes

For the Cupcakes:

• 1/4 cup (56g) plain hot coffee or boiling water
• 2 tbsp (12g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (140g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (55g) vegetable oil
• 1/2 stick (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (119g) buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tsp red gel food coloring
• 1/2 tsp distilled white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 5 oz (151g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 5 ½ tbsp (77g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¾ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ⅓ cup (167g) powdered sugar, sifted

How to Make Red Velvet Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a small bowl, whisk together hot coffee and cocoa powder. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
Measure your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, and melted butter. Add the egg and whisk until smooth.
Stir in buttermilk, vanilla, food coloring, vinegar, and the coffee-cocoa mixture.

3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three additions. Whisk gently until combined.

4: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for 17–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add vanilla and sifted powdered sugar gradually. Beat until fluffy. Adjust consistency with milk or more sugar, if needed.

6: Frost and Decorate

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting on top. Add sprinkles or edible decorations if desired.

FAQs

Pro Tips for the Best Red Velvet Cupcakes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without altering the texture.
Measure flour carefully to avoid dry cupcakes.
Don’t skip the coffee it enhances the cocoa flavor beautifully.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

The Best Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Valentine Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookie Bars
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

Share Your Cupcakes

I’d love to see your creations! Share a photo on Instagram and tag me @irisrecipes. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest for your next baking adventure.

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